New York’s state parks have begun shifting from regular Park Police patrols to State Police coverage, a change that will be noticed by many visitors this summer.
The Times Union reports that the change was initiated by former Governor Andrew Cuomo in 2019.
The move gives the New York State Police operational and command control over Park Police, a move criticized as an effort to merge the two entities.
According to an internal document obtained by the Times Union, State Police, designated with a “Response Only” status, will now oversee dozens of parks and historic sites starting this summer, appearing only when summoned for emergencies.
The Park Police union, alleging exclusion from the process, has lodged a complaint with the state Public Employees Relations Board.
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