03/16/2025
🔊 Official Announcement from the New York State Law Enforcement Community Council (NYSLECC) | Community Safety Alert
To all business owners, residents, and community members,
Recent incidents of robberies, theft, and violent crimes in our community have raised serious concerns. As an organization dedicated to public safety and community support, the New York State Law Enforcement Community Council (NYSLECC) urges everyone to take this issue seriously, remain vigilant, and work together to protect our businesses, homes, and loved ones.
⸻
⚠️ Increasing Crime – Our Community Must Take Action!
In recent weeks, multiple businesses and individuals have been targeted by criminals who have no regard for law and order. These incidents are unacceptable, and we, as a community, must no longer remain silent or passive.
❗ Just because this hasn’t happened to you yet doesn’t mean it won’t.
Ignoring the problem will not make it go away. If we do not take action now, our community will continue to suffer, and the threat will grow. It is time to stand together to ensure a safe and secure environment for ourselves, our businesses, and future generations.
⸻
🔹 Business Owners Must Unite – A Model for Community Defense
A recent incident at BusyMall demonstrated the power of unity when multiple business owners stood together to repel criminals attempting to commit robbery. Their swift, coordinated response successfully prevented further crime, sending a clear message that this community will not tolerate lawlessness.
NYSLECC encourages all business owners, particularly in Flushing and surrounding areas, to establish mutual support networks to help protect against crime. When we work together, we are stronger and more capable of deterring criminals from targeting our businesses.
⸻
🛡 How to Respond to Crime – Critical Safety Guidelines
1️⃣ Avoid Confronting Criminals Alone – Safety in Numbers
• Do not attempt to physically confront suspects alone.
• If possible, coordinate with nearby business owners or staff to take collective action.
• Alert others and seek assistance rather than engaging in direct confrontation.
2️⃣ Business Owners Have the Right to Refuse Service to Suspicious Individuals
If an individual appears suspicious—wearing masks, ski masks, or other facial coverings—business owners have the legal right to deny entry.
✅ If you feel uneasy, simply state: “We are closed, please leave.”
✅ Businesses are private property—you have the authority to control who enters.
✅ Avoid engaging with individuals displaying suspicious behavior.
3️⃣ Security Measures for Businesses
To enhance protection and minimize risk, NYSLECC strongly recommends businesses implement the following:
✅ Install automatic door locks to regulate entry;
✅ Upgrade surveillance cameras for high-resolution monitoring;
✅ Establish communication with neighboring businesses to exchange alerts on suspicious activity;
✅ Keep emergency alarms or panic buttons readily accessible;
✅ Avoid working alone at night whenever possible.
⸻
4️⃣ Legal Self-Defense Tools in New York: Pepper Spray & Stun Guns
New York State permits legal purchase and use of pepper spray and stun guns for self-defense. However, it is crucial to follow legal protocols when using these tools:
• Pepper spray and stun guns must be stored in business premises for protection.
• Carrying these tools visibly may serve as a deterrent to criminals.
⚠️ Proper Use Guidelines:
1️⃣ Always use pepper spray as an initial deterrent.
2️⃣ If the suspect continues to pose a threat or is armed, you are legally permitted to use a stun gun for self-defense.
3️⃣ New York law allows stun guns to be kept on business premises for security purposes.
💡 NYSLECC will provide training sessions on proper self-defense techniques, legal rights, and the appropriate use of self-defense tools. We encourage business owners and community members to attend these sessions to ensure compliance with the law while effectively protecting themselves.
⸻
📢 NYSLECC Calls for Immediate Community Action!
As crime rates rise, it is our collective responsibility to ensure our safety. Asian Americans and local businesses have been disproportionately targeted for too long—it is time to stand up and fight back within the boundaries of the law.
This is not about provoking violence or causing chaos. This is about defending our right to safety and security.
📌 What You Can Do Today:
✅ Businesses should form security partnerships and establish real-time alert systems.
✅ Report suspicious activities immediately to law enforcement and NYSLECC.
✅ Learn your legal rights and the correct way to protect yourself.
NYSLECC is committed to supporting our community and ensuring that every resident and business owner has the tools and knowledge to safeguard their property and personal safety.
For assistance, training opportunities, or to report safety concerns, please contact NYSLECC directly.
Together, we will send a clear message: Our community is strong, united, and will not be an easy target for crime.
Stay vigilant and stay safe.
New York State Law Enforcement Community Council (NYSLECC)
