New York City Detectives will once again lead New Yorkers through what will be recorded as one of the toughest times in history. The Detectives’ Endowment Association will be by your side every step of the way — fighting for your rights and safety. Every day, you earn the right to be called “The Greatest Detectives in the World.”
The Coronavirus (COVID-19) circumstances have been reminiscent, in many respects, to our experiences with 9/11 and the environmental fallout from that catastrophic event. Since we are still dealing with post-9/11 illness 19 years later, we urge all members now to learn from the lessons of 9/11, and document, to your best ability, everything that now happens with respect to the COVID-19 during your daily work shift.
The DEA cannot stress enough how important it is that you have a record of any and all interaction you may have with anyone you believe has, or has been exposed to, the COVID-19.
If any member has been tested and diagnosed with COVID-19, we strongly recommend Line-of-Duty paperwork be filed. Symptoms of the virus include difficulty breathing, runny nose, sore throat, cough, and fever. More information here.
Pursuant to a memorandum from the Police Commissioner, every member of the NYPD will be given a universal exposure number as there is potential for everyone to be exposed to COVID-19.
It still continues to be important that you thoroughly document interactions with individuals you suspect are infected with COVID-19 in your activity log and command log. (Please retain a photocopy or photograph of your notations with a time and date stamp.) Make a notification to your immediate Supervisor. Entries must have sufficient information so that you will be able to complete the appropriate paperwork (e.g. Line of Duty injury report) should the need arise in the future. The more information the better.
We have been in constant contact with NYPD executives. After discussions with the Chief of Detectives, he agreed to issue a modification on dress code for suits and/or uniforms shortly due to the lack of dry cleaning establishments. Extended tours and cancellation of RDOs will depend upon how many UMOS go sick in the coming days.
There are more masks and gloves available at the Detective Boroughs. Please share this information with fellow Detectives in case they are in need of supplies.
Please contact the DEA office regarding personal protective equipment.
There are resources for members who are having childcare issues due to the cancellation of school. Please click here to learn more.
We will continue to keep members up-to-date on all information as it emerges.
Take all precautions necessary to safeguard your health and safety. Please also make the health of your family and loved ones a priority.
The DEA will always be in your corner, fighting for the your rights and safety. In unity there is strength.
Fraternally,
Paul DiGiacomo, President and the DEA Board
