The NYPD christened on Wednesday a new mobile command center named after a cop who perished as a result of a 9/11 terror attack-related illness.
Donated by the New York City Police Foundation, the Real Time Crime Center Emergency Mobile Response Van (RTCC) will be used to set up a base away from police headquarters in the event of a major incident or investigation. Inside, the van is equipped with various screens that project real time footage from NYC cameras around the five boroughs allowing cops to monitor events as they happen. It is also fitted with screens on the outside to share information with both fellow cops and the public.
“This state-of-the-art vehicle will assist every detective in the field during critical incidents throughout the city. It will allow the responding investigators to relay information to the field detectives in minutes. The new technology in this vehicle will expedite investigations when time is critical and of the essence,” Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said.
This new van will replace an existing one that was previously used in such high-profile cases as the Brooklyn Subway shooting in which Frank James opened fire on straphangers in April of 2022. Police brass say the tech will be invaluable when monitoring anything from terrorist attacks to large-scale protests.
The van is named after Det. Joseph Paolillo, a detective who rushed down to Ground Zero on 9/11 to search for his brother, Battalion Chief John Paolillo, both sadly lost their lives as a result, with John passing that day and Joseph losing his battle to cancer in 2019.
“We promise never to forget Joe and we promise never to forget his sacrifice,” Chief Kenny added. “We are honored to dedicate this real-time crime center vehicle in honor of Joe.”
The Paolillo family took a tour of the van, becoming emotional as they placed their hands over the dedication plaque for the late detective.
“We are honored to support and today we are proud to donate this latest vehicle in the department’s fleet in memory of Detective Paolillo,” Chairman of the New York City Police Foundation, Philip Ozuah said.
The ceremony was attended by top police brass including First Deputy Commissioner Tania Kinsella.
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