The city of New York is taking steps to enhance safety in bodegas by allocating $1.6 million to install panic buttons in up to 500 stores across the five boroughs. This decision comes in response to a series of violent incidents at delis, prompting Mayor Eric Adams to address the issue with a proactive approach.
The panic buttons will be directly connected to the NYPD’s central command center, bypassing traditional 911 dispatchers to expedite response times in case of emergencies. Adams emphasized the importance of this initiative in enhancing the safety of bodega workers and customers, particularly in high-crime areas.
The installation of these panic buttons will be carried out by Silent Shield, with the specific locations of the stores remaining undisclosed to the public. This element of surprise is intended to deter potential criminals and provide a sense of security to those working in these establishments.
Last month, the United Bodega Association (UBA) advocated for additional safety measures following two fatal incidents at delis in The Bronx. A pilot program initiated earlier had installed 50 panic buttons in high-crime areas, but challenges in integration with police headquarters led to inconsistent response times.
UBA spokesperson Fernando Mateo stressed the urgency of implementing panic buttons to prevent further violence and protect the lives of bodega owners, workers, and customers. The need for swift police response in dangerous situations was echoed by bodega workers like Eli Soto and Aassim Kadeem, who highlighted the prevalence of crime in their neighborhoods.
Soto expressed concern over slow police response times in the 49th Precinct and expressed hope that the panic buttons would facilitate quicker assistance during emergencies. Kadeem emphasized the importance of timely intervention, especially in areas prone to gang violence where any delay could have severe consequences.
Overall, the introduction of panic buttons in bodegas is seen as a crucial step towards enhancing safety and reducing crime in these establishments. By establishing a direct line of communication with law enforcement, the city aims to create a safer environment for both bodega employees and customers.
