NYPD’s Highest-Ranking Orthodox Jew Urges New Yorkers to Proudly Display Their Religious Beliefs

The New York Police Department (NYPD) has recently promoted Richie “Yechiel” Taylor to the position of deputy chief of the Community Affairs Bureau, making him the highest-ranking Orthodox Jew in the department’s history. Chief Taylor, who wears a yarmulke on the job, is urging New Yorkers to proudly display their religious identity, even in the face of a wave of antisemitic hate crimes. He emphasizes that there is no need to hide one’s beliefs and way of life in the city, encouraging individuals of all faiths to be proud of who they are.

As a devout Orthodox Jew, Taylor observes Shabbat, the day of rest, from Friday to Saturday evenings. However, he considers being “always on call” as part of an exception to this religious practice, as the principle of saving lives takes precedence over all else. Taylor receives emergency calls, often regarding missing persons, during this time period, ranging from one a week to one a month. He is committed to leading by example and demonstrates his dedication to his faith by wearing his yarmulke in uniform. Taylor assures the community that they are safe and that the NYPD has their back.

Taylor’s journey to the NYPD began at a young age when he attended yeshivas in Brooklyn. His desire to help people led him to become a police explorer at the age of 15. Three years later, he started working as an EMT and was present at the World Trade Center on 9/11, providing aid to dazed FDNY members near Ground Zero. Taylor washed their eyes, hydrated them, and offered emotional support during a time of devastation.

Throughout his career, Taylor has served in over 10 commands across the city and has become known as a “mensch,” a person of integrity and honor. His current role involves outreach to all communities, not just the Jewish community. Taylor firmly believes that an attack on one community is an attack on all, emphasizing that no one should be targeted due to their way of life.

Recent data obtained by The Post reveals a troubling increase in antisemitic hate crimes in New York City. So far in 2024, there has been a 45% increase compared to the same period last year. In May alone, Jewish hate crimes rose by 150%. Despite these statistics, Taylor reassures Jewish New Yorkers that the NYPD is making numerous arrests in connection with these crimes. He cites the case of Anas Saleh, an anti-Israel protester who turned himself in after the police department began searching for him. Taylor’s message to those considering leaving the city is to stand firm and continue their way of life, as moving away is what the terrorists and antisemites want.

In conclusion, Chief Richie Taylor’s promotion to the position of deputy chief of the Community Affairs Bureau marks a significant milestone for the NYPD and the Jewish community. His unwavering commitment to his faith, along with his dedication to serving and protecting the people of New York City, makes him an exceptional leader. Taylor’s message of religious pride and unity resonates with individuals of all faiths, reminding them that they are safe and protected by the NYPD.