The New York City Police Benevolent Association (PBA) has endorsed Yi Andy Chen’s candidacy for State Assembly District 40 in New York.
Chen joined as an auxiliary police officer in 2015 and served the community for over 600 hours each year for seven years. During the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, Chen mobilized the community to provide law enforcement agencies, including the police, with a large number of personal protective equipment and food. Additionally, when public safety declined and the city police came under attack, Chen organized multiple rallies to support the police.
Chen has maintained a close cooperation and communication with the local precincts, including the Flushing precinct and the 109th precinct, as well as the police-community association. Over the years, Chen has been actively assisting community businesses and residents in reporting crimes, acting as a communication bridge between the police and residents. He has received multiple commendations for his efforts. In 2023, he collaborated with 21 community organizations to raise funds, gathering over $30,000 for George Brauns, a former officer from the 109th precinct who was battling lupus and had lost 130 pounds, to help him and his family through their difficult times.
Regarding public safety in the community, Chen stated that there is an increasing presence of habitual criminals and zero-dollar-bail offenders on the streets. Apart from drug trafficking, illegal firearms, and the detrimental impact of the sex trade turning Flushing into a red-light district, the community is also suffering due to bail reform and clean slate legislation. Chen cited a case he was involved in, where a delivery person was shot in Forest Hills – the perpetrator had committed over ten crimes, all sealed on record. He emphasized the need for more resources for the New York City Police and to ensure the well-being of families of officers who died in the line of duty. Patrick Hendry, the chairman of the police union, stated, “We unconditionally endorse Yi Andy Chen. He understands the risks that New York City police officers face in carrying out their duties and the sacrifices they make to defend the community. The 40th district needs a state assembly member who supports public safety and stands behind the police.”