Eugene Adeleye’s arrival at Kennedy Airport in 2007 marked the beginning of an unexpected journey. With just $50 and a small suitcase, the Nigerian immigrant sought opportunity in America, unaware that his path would lead him to become a New York City police officer dedicated to transforming the streets of his new home. Assigned to the 9th Precinct in Manhattan, Adeleye’s role as a Community Affairs officer places him at the heart of efforts to improve the quality of life around East 14th Street, a vital artery in the East Village.
Adeleye’s daily engagement involves building relationships with the diverse community that defines this area. He listens to the concerns of shopkeepers, residents, and visitors, many of whom, like him, are immigrants. This direct interaction is crucial in developing strategies to combat crime and foster a safer, more vibrant neighborhood along East 14th Street. “Not everyone understands someone else’s problems,” Adeleye explains, highlighting the importance of his role in bridging gaps and finding solutions tailored to the community’s needs. “So, finding solutions for people’s problems and answering their questions—I didn’t plan for any of this when I came from Nigeria, but I love it.”
The area surrounding East 14th Street had previously seen significant improvements in safety and quality of life, thanks to the diligent efforts of the NYPD. However, the pandemic brought new challenges. East 14th Street experienced a downturn as homeless encampments emerged and crime rates rose, including assaults and a tragic stabbing incident in June. This decline was exacerbated by rampant drug abuse and mental health issues, turning the block between First Avenue and Avenue A into an unregulated marketplace each weekend, attracting further disorder and violence.
A significant issue contributing to the chaos on East 14th Street was the influx of unlicensed street vendors, often selling stolen goods. NYPD officers faced a frustrating cycle of arrests, only to see the same offenders return to the streets due to lenient criminal justice reforms. Captain Pamela Jeronimo, commanding officer of the 9th Precinct, emphasizes the dedication of her officers to community concerns but points out the systemic challenges: “We know quality of life is very important, and all of my officers do a tremendous job of listening to issues from all over the neighborhood,” she stated. “But we have a criminal recidivist problem, too. Recidivists are arrested and, just as quickly, are right back out on the streets.”
In response to these escalating problems on East 14th Street, the NYPD, under Mayor Eric Adams’ comprehensive interagency approach, has initiated a robust revitalization plan. This strategy involves collaboration between the police and various city departments, including Mental Health and Hygiene, Homeless Services, and Sanitation. Mayor Adams recently announced a $1 million investment to establish a new NYPD Mobile Command Center on East 14th Street. He described East 14th Street as “almost like a no-man’s land” due to its position as a dividing line between precincts. The Mayor stressed the importance of reclaiming the street, stating, “But once you allow one person to set up as an illegal vendor or to sleep on the street, then someone else says, ‘Hey this is normalized.’ Well, this is not a problem that’s coming back to this area.”
The Mobile Command Center on East 14th Street is a key component of this revitalization effort, serving as a visible symbol of police presence and a central operational hub. Equipped with advanced technology such as computers, secure internet, lighting, and security cameras, it enhances the NYPD’s ability to respond effectively to crime and address community issues along East 14th Street. Complementing this technological boost, Captain Jeronimo and Deputy Inspector Daniel Orlando of the 13th Precinct have increased foot patrols on their respective sides of East 14th Street, leading to encouraging early outcomes.
These intensified efforts are already yielding positive results. Serious crime in the East Village has decreased by over 30 percent compared to the previous year, with significant declines across major crime categories. While citywide crime is down 2.5 percent, the improvements in the East Village, particularly around East 14th Street, are noteworthy. However, the focus on East 14th Street extends beyond just quantifiable crime statistics. Success is also measured by the visible improvements in the area’s cleanliness, the restored sense of safety for residents and businesses, and the connection of vulnerable individuals with necessary support services.
NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban underscores the importance of addressing quality-of-life issues alongside serious crime. He points to the progress on East 14th Street as evidence of the city’s responsiveness to community feedback. “People need to not only be safe, but to feel safe, as well,” Commissioner Caban stated. “Our coordinated strategy to reinvigorate this neighborhood should assure New Yorkers that every person and every business and every community matter.”
Officer Adeleye’s personal journey from a newcomer seeking refuge to a dedicated NYPD officer embodies the spirit of opportunity and service. Arriving at Kennedy Airport, his initial experience of being alone and homeless was quickly met with support from the African church community in Jamaica, Queens. Pastor Abraham Obadare and his family provided shelter and support, enabling Adeleye to secure work and begin building his life in America. He worked diligently as a stock clerk and security guard, saving every penny while pursuing his American dream. Encouraged by colleagues, he joined the NYPD as a traffic agent in 2010 and later became a police officer, following a path of public service inspired by his mother and sister’s careers in law enforcement and the military in Nigeria.
Despite his imposing physical presence, Adeleye’s approachable and engaging demeanor quickly builds trust and rapport with people he encounters on East 14th Street. He finds deep satisfaction in his role, improving lives and contributing to the revitalization of the community. Reflecting on his journey, Adeleye affirms his life-altering decision to move to the United States: “All around the world, you hear about the opportunity in America,” he said. “And you hear that phrase, ‘As long as you’re willing to work.’ Well, I was willing to work.” His story and the ongoing efforts on East 14th Street highlight the potential for positive change through dedicated community policing and interagency collaboration, making the area safer and more welcoming for all.
