Introduction to SilentShields

In a significant move to enhance safety in local businesses, Mayor Eric Adams has announced a $1.6 million funding initiative aimed at installing “SilentShields” technology in approximately 500 bodegas across New York City. This program prioritizes establishments experiencing heightened crime rates.

Key Features of the SilentShields System

The SilentShields system incorporates emergency buttons that allow bodega employees to instantly alert the New York Police Department (NYPD) with the push of a button. These alerts will be complemented by real-time video feeds from cameras installed within the bodegas, enabling law enforcement to respond swiftly to incidents.

• Emergency Buttons: Direct communication with the NYPD.
• Real-Time Video Feeds: Coordinated with a program enabling businesses to share security footage with the NYPD.
• Targeted Implementation: Initial installation focuses on bodegas identified as high-risk for crime.

The Role of the United Bodega Association

The United Bodega Association (UBA) will oversee the distribution of these emergency buttons through an emergency grant. Fernando Mateo, a UBA spokesperson, referred to SilentShields as “a game changer for New York City Bodega workers,” highlighting the initiative’s potential impact on employee safety.

The Context Behind the Initiative

This funding comes in response to increasing calls for enhanced security measures in local bodegas, especially after recent violent incidents. Recent events, including a robbery in Brooklyn and a stabbing in Harlem within the last week, have underscored the urgent need for better safety protocols in these community staples.

The UBA has been advocating for increased security funding since Governor Kathy Hochul first proposed introducing panic buttons as a security measure last year.

Conclusion

Mayor Eric Adams emphasized the importance of bodegas in Manhattan’s cultural and economic landscape, stating, “Bodegas are part of the heart and soul of New York City.” The SilentShields initiative aims to not only protect these vital businesses but also to foster a sense of security among their employees and customers.