A major change is coming to how the NYPD operates in The Bronx.
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced the borough will be split into two patrol commands: Bronx North and Bronx South. The structure is already used in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens.
"For too long, The Bronx has experienced more crime per capita than any other borough while operating under a structure that hasn't kept pace with the demands placed on it," Tisch said.
The NYPD says The Bronx accounted for more than one-third of all shooting incidents and shooting victims last year, and Bronx residents made nearly one million calls for service.
Retired NYPD detective Phil Grimaldi said the new setup will allow police to focus more closely on specific problem areas.
"If there's a specific area of The Bronx that's getting a lot of crime… they're going to be able to focus more and have the resources focus on those locations," he said.
Tisch said the change will bring nearly 200 additional officers to the borough, along with specialized units in homicide, narcotics, neighborhood safety, and auto crime.
News 12 is still working to determine how the 12 precincts will be divided and whether the current command center will remain.