May 5, 2025
Bronx, NY - In a move aimed at bolstering the safety of bodega workers and deterring crime, Mayor Eric Adams announced on Sunday a significant investment in a new safety program called "SilentShields." This initiative will equip 500 bodegas across New York City with panic buttons that provide a direct line of communication to the NYPD in emergency situations.
The rollout of this $1.6 million program began with a Bronx deli, Pamela Green Deli located at 1798 Crotona Ave., where Mayor Adams himself showcased one of the potentially life-saving devices. He emphasized that this direct connection to law enforcement will be a crucial tool for protecting these vital community stores and their employees.
"We're going to have a direct communication to the Police Department, 500 bodegas, $1.6 million that we're investing in this initiative," stated Mayor Adams. Drawing a vivid analogy, he added, "Instead of just having the cats keep away the rats, we're going to have a direct connection with the police to keep away those dangerous cats that try to rob our stores."
More Than Just an Alarm: Real-Time Information for Law Enforcement
The panic buttons offer more than just an alert. Upon activation, they will also provide responding officers with real-time access to the store's security cameras, allowing them to assess the situation as it unfolds. This immediate visual information will be invaluable in enabling a faster and more effective response.
NYPD Chief of Department John Chell underscored the dual benefit of the program, stating, "SilentShields gives workers peace of mind as it also serves as a crime prevention tool. It allows quick response to a potential violent situation for police officers to save lives. Ultimately, it helps keep everyone safe and sends a message."
To maintain the element of surprise and maximize the deterrent effect, Mayor Adams indicated that the specific locations of the 500 bodegas receiving the panic buttons will not be disclosed. The program will prioritize stores situated in areas identified as having higher crime rates.
Addressing a Troubling Trend of Violence Against Bodega Workers
This initiative comes at a critical time, as New York City has seen a concerning increase in assaults targeting bodega workers. Recent incidents, such as the stabbing of a Harlem bodega worker during an attempted robbery in March and the shooting of a teenager inside a Brooklyn store earlier this year, highlight the urgent need for enhanced safety measures.
Fernando Mateo, spokesperson for the United Bodega Association, passionately called for the swift implementation of the SilentShields program. "There's no reason why we can't start tomorrow, it's in the budget," Mateo asserted. "That's what we're expecting, to start immediately."
