The New York Police Department’s Chief of Department reportedly praised former President Donald J. Trump on Wednesday, crediting his administration’s support and ongoing federal cooperation with helping city authorities confront a recent wave of crimes involving migrants.
Speaking during a televised interview, Chief John Chell described Trump as a “law and order” figure whose policies and federal backing played a vital role in addressing violent incidents in the city — particularly a surge in moped-related robberies and assaults attributed to some recent arrivals.
“We’re in the business of keeping people safe,” Chell said. “Migrants are committing violent crimes on mopeds, and we’re taking them off the street.”
The remarks come amid heightened scrutiny over public safety in New York, where a rise in certain crimes has sparked debate over the role of immigration enforcement and interagency coordination.
While the city continues to operate under sanctuary policies that restrict local involvement in federal immigration efforts, Chell emphasized that the NYPD’s collaboration with federal partners focuses squarely on criminal behavior, not immigration status.
City officials say the joint efforts have led to arrests, weapons seizures, and the dismantling of several organized robbery groups.
Still, Chell’s comments reflect a more aggressive tone from the city’s law enforcement leadership — one that has drawn both support and criticism.
Going backwards on crime is 'not an option': NYPD Chief of Department John Chell pic.twitter.com/Nd4miLrrG4
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Supporters argue the approach is a necessary response to a targeted public safety threat. “This isn’t about where someone came from,” one city official said. “It’s about what they’re doing once they’re here.”
The surge in crimes involving mopeds, particularly in Manhattan and Queens, has put pressure on the NYPD and Mayor Eric Adams to deliver results.
Many of the incidents involve groups of young men using scooters to commit snatch-and-grab robberies and escape quickly, complicating enforcement efforts.
Mayor Adams has largely echoed Chell’s public safety messaging while insisting that the city remains committed to due process and community trust.
The police department, under Commissioner Jessica Tisch, continues to maintain that it does not enforce federal immigration law.
Still, the shift in tone suggests a growing willingness by local officials to publicly acknowledge and even praise former federal efforts as they face mounting public concern.
“This is about safety,” Chell said. “We’re going to do whatever it takes.”
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