New York City Police Say Banks Need to Tighten Security

Feb 1, 2003 12:00 PM

A rash of unarmed bank robberies in New York City has prompted Police Commissioner Ray Kelly to blame security lapses. The banks are staying open longer hours and using fewer security measures such as bulletproof glass and dye packs hidden in money.

“As banks become more customer-friendly, they are also becoming more robber-friendly,” Kelly told The Associated Press. “Some in the banking industry take the position that robberies are simply a cost of doing business. That view is unacceptable.” Kelly also pointed to lax surveillance systems inside the banks, especially with the use of degrading video tapes that do not provide usable images. He specifically cited one bank camera that was blocked by a Christmas wreath.

So far this year, 36 New York City banks have been robbed by assailants using only a note to demand the money. The figure is nearly three times as many robberies as were reported in January 2002.

“Banks are constantly trying to come up with ways to thwart robbers and at the same time not inconvenience customers,” said John Hall of the American Bankers Association.

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