NYC Gazette

Assemblyman Alec Brook-Krasny from Coney Island has voiced his concerns regarding New York City's new "LockerNYC" program, labeling it as a temporary solution to the city's increasing theft issues. The initiative, which has been introduced as a pilot program, includes seven lockbox locations across Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens, designed to provide residents with a secure option for receiving packages.

The implementation of LockerNYC comes in response to a surge in robberies throughout the city, with Brooklyn alone experiencing a 9% rise in theft incidents at the start of the year. City Hall has reported receiving numerous daily complaints about stolen or missing packages in transit.

Brook-Krasny emphasized the importance of addressing the underlying causes of crime in the city, stating, "Temporary fixes are great but we need long-term change." He highlighted the need to tackle the root of the theft issue rather than solely relying on measures like lockboxes, pointing out that the problem stems from laws that empower criminals.

The assemblyman urged for a more comprehensive approach to combatting crime, suggesting a repeal of bail reform and what he referred to as "woke criminal justice policies." He asserted, "It’s time for us to get serious and see this problem for what it really is."

As debates continue over the effectiveness of initiatives like LockerNYC, Brook-Krasny's critique underscores the call for a broader examination of criminal justice policies to address the underlying causes of crime in New York City.