Law & order

Top cop James O’Neill to double size of NYPD’s vice squad, enforces new human trafficking probe training

In a new initiative aimed at addressing human trafficking, the city’s top cop ordered new training for police on dealing with victims by doubling the size of the NYPD’s vice squad.

Police Commissioner James O’Neill said Wednesday he will add 25 new cops to the citywide Vice Enforcement Unit to conduct trafficking investigations. The NYPD now has a 24-hour hotline for victims and others with information about trafficking to call.

“We (are) altering the law enforcement mindset in training and recognition,” O’Neill said. “We’ve already switched our emphasis from prostitutes and are focusing on pimps and the Johns who pay for their services.”