The NYPD is launching a pilot program that creates a new division to crackdown on surging quality of life complaints.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch says quality of life complaint calls have nearly doubled in the last six years from noise complaints to homeless encampments to panhandling.
"New Yorkers are frustrated and they are pleading for our help."
Tisch says the department is now assigning officers to quality of life teams as part of a new division to respond to complaints. This will start in five precincts with a plan to expand it citywide.
"It's about improving the quality of life for everyday New Yorkers in their neighborhoods on their blocks and at their front doors."
Critics are concerned this will be similar to "broken windows" policing that they feel unfairly targeted minority communities in the past.