NYPD Cops Go Without Protective Coronavirus Gear: PBA Complaint

NEW YORK CITY — Cops who say they're on the front lines of New York City's coronavirus outbreak worry the NYPD isn't giving them the gear they need to stay safe.

The Police Benevolent Association filed a complaint this week over the NYPD's failure to provide officers with masks and gloves, President Pat Lynch announced Friday.

“The NYPD has not done enough to ensure that all of our members have protective equipment such as masks and gloves, nor does it have adequate supplies of that equipment to weather a prolonged outbreak," Lynch said.

"That is why we are asking state health and safety regulators to step in and compel the NYPD to provide adequate protective equipment as required by law.”

Cops argues they have a high likelihood of COVID-19 exposure because they are first on the scene when people call 911, according to the complaint.

NYPD sent out a "Finest Message" on Feb. 3 telling officers to remain outside sick people's homes whenever possible, wear mask and gloves, and wash hands often, the complaint reads.

Yet the complaint alleges may NYPD commands are waiting on masks, hand sanitizers and training on how to use protective supplies.

The PBA alleges the NYPD violated the Occupational Safety and Health Act — which requires employers to give workers protective equipment — in a complaint filed Monday with the New York State Public Employee Safety and Health Bureau Monday, court records show.

The NYPD press office did not immediately respond to Patch's request for comment.