Hispanics make up a record 25.7 percent of the New York Police Department. The number of Latinos in the nation’s largest police department has increased by 6 percent since 2001. Figures from last month show that in officer ranks alone, Hispanics comprise 29 percent. Hispanics are 27.4 percent of city residents.
Whites in the department have dropped to 53.2 percent from 64.3 percent in 2001.
Blacks are 16.5 percent and Asians 4.5 percent.
Commissioner Raymond Kelly says diversity helps with community relations and crimefighting.
But the National Latino Officers Association laments Hispanics aren’t represented as heavily in the top ranks.
The group is boycotting this month’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations.
{AP/1010 WINS/Matzav.com Newscenter}
