NYPD Commissioner William Bratton announces changes in city policing methods

NEW YORK (WABC) -- New York City Police Commissioner William Bratton announced some changes in NYPD policing methods Thursday.

The city's top cop made the announcement during a police foundation breakfast, and there are several big headlines.

First, Bratton said all officers will undergo two days of firearms training and three days of so-called "skills enhancement" training.

It is all designed to improve the way officers handle some interactions with the public.

Bratton said he has studied past police and community interactions and used them to help decide how to improve the department.

Second, Bratton announced that he is forming a new unit of 350 specially-trained officers to handle the city's response to terror threats.

They will also get special training on how to handle protests and keep them from getting out of hand.

Third, Bratton said "a new patrol model" will put more precinct officers in direct communication with members of the community.

Although the officers will be in police cruisers, they will not be expected to be constantly responding to calls. They will be able talk to business owners and members of the public to proactively handle problems and concerns that arise.

The pilot program will start at two precincts in Manhattan and two in Queens and will expand citywide if successful.

The "Police Community Compact" will be part of the patrol division's makeover.

Another component will designate a supervising officer who works to solve community problems by increasing dialogue.

By creating a separate unit, the commissioner says the NYPD will be able to maintain consistent precinct staffing levels to help patrol the streets, even during major events.