Complete Guide To The 104th Precinct In Queens: Jurisdiction, Services, And Community Resources For 2026
The 104th Precinct in Queens serves as a vital anchor for public safety and community engagement across several central neighborhoods. Navigating local law enforcement services requires understanding specific jurisdictional boundaries, specialized units, and operational protocols. Whether you are reporting an incident, looking to participate in neighborhood safety meetings, or seeking community affairs support, knowing how the 104th Precinct functions ensures efficient interaction with local authorities.
Geographic Jurisdiction and Neighborhood Coverage
The 104th Precinct covers a diverse mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas within Queens. Patrol units are continuously deployed to monitor traffic corridors, retail hubs, and residential side streets to maintain order and deter criminal activity.
- Ridgewood: Known for its historic district, dense residential housing, and bustling commercial strips along Myrtle Avenue and Seneca Avenue.
- Maspeth: A balanced neighborhood featuring residential blocks, major logistics and industrial zones, and prominent roadways like Flushing Avenue and Grand Avenue.
- Middle Village: Encompassing residential homes, commercial corridors along Metropolitan Avenue, and major regional spaces such as Juniper Valley Park and the historic Mount Olivet Cemetery.
- Glendale: Home to commercial arteries like Cooper Avenue, residential communities, and major retail complexes including The Shops at Atlas Park.
Precinct Headquarters Information: The 104th Precinct station house is centrally located to ensure rapid deployment across its entire command area. Residents can visit the facility for in-person report filings, community meetings, and precinct council events.
- Address: 64-02 Catalpa Avenue, Ridgewood, NY 11385
- Main Telephone Line: (718) 386-3008
- Emergency Assistance: Always dial 911 for crimes in progress or immediate emergencies.
Core Operational Units and Public Services
Modern urban policing relies on specialized divisions operating within the precinct framework. The 104th Precinct integrates standard patrol forces with specialized response units to address the distinct needs of its commercial and residential zones.
Patrol Services and Response Teams
Uniformed patrol officers provide the backbone of daily operations. They respond to 911 calls, conduct vertical patrols in residential complexes where applicable, and maintain visibility at major transit hubs and commercial corridors.
Crime Prevention and Community Affairs
The community affairs bureau acts as the bridge between local residents, business owners, and precinct leadership. Officers assigned to this division organize local youth programs, coordinate with block associations, and conduct safety seminars addressing property crime prevention, cyber scams, and home security audits.
Traffic Safety and Enforcement
Given the heavy commercial traffic in Maspeth and the dense pedestrian activity in Ridgewood, the precinct's traffic safety officers focus on enforcing speed limits, managing commercial vehicle restrictions on residential streets, and protecting vulnerable road users near schools and parks.
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Understanding Crime Statistics, Safety Trends, and Prevention
Analyzing local safety metrics helps residents and business owners adopt proactive security measures. The New York City Police Department provides transparent, data-driven insights through CompStat reporting, which tracks major felony categories across the 104th Precinct command.
Key Focus Areas for Local Safety
- Package Thefts and Porch Piracy: E-commerce deliveries remain a frequent target for opportunistic theft in residential zones like Ridgewood and Middle Village.
- Catalytic Converter and Auto Thefts: Industrial areas and quiet residential side streets require heightened vehicle security measures, particularly for high-clearance vehicles.
- Commercial Burglary: Retail corridors along Myrtle and Metropolitan Avenues require robust commercial-grade alarm systems and verified video surveillance.
Best Practices for Neighborhood Security
- Secure Deliveries: Utilize secure locker pickup locations or require signature confirmation for high-value packages during peak holiday and shopping seasons.
- Vehicle Hardening: Park in well-lit areas, engage steering wheel locks for vulnerable vehicle models, and never leave key fobs inside unattended cars.
- Active Reporting: Utilize the 311 system for non-emergency municipal complaints and reserve 911 or the direct precinct line for suspicious persons or illegal activity.
Comparison of NYPD Reporting Channels
Choosing the correct communication channel ensures that incidents are handled by the appropriate personnel without overburdening emergency dispatch lines.
| Reporting Need | Contact Method | Appropriate Use Case | Average Response Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immediate Danger | Dial 911 | Crimes in progress, medical emergencies, violent altercations, fires. | Immediate dispatch of patrol units or emergency services. |
| Precinct Desk | (718) 386-3008 | Direct inquiries regarding ongoing local cases, precinct hours, or local administrative questions. | Direct telephone assistance during business hours. |
| Non-Emergency Police | 311 (or local precinct) | Noise complaints, illegal parking, minor property damage without a suspect present. | Routed to appropriate municipal agencies or dispatched based on priority. |
| Crime Stoppers | 1-800-577-TIPS | Submitting anonymous tips regarding felony investigations or wanted individuals. | Completely confidential; eligible for rewards upon arrest and conviction. |
Step-by-Step Guide: Filing an Incident Report
When you need to file an official police report with the 104th Precinct, following a structured process minimizes delays and ensures all necessary documentation is captured accurately.
- Assess the Situation: Ensure you are in a safe location. If a crime is actively occurring or immediate medical attention is required, call 911 immediately rather than visiting the station house.
- Gather Documentation: Collect all relevant details before contacting or visiting the precinct. This includes identification, serial numbers of stolen electronics, photographs of property damage, and license plate numbers if applicable.
- Visit or Call the Precinct: Go directly to the 104th Precinct station house located at 64-02 Catalpa Avenue or call the main desk if the incident does not require an in-person physical evidence review.
- Speak with the Desk Officer: Inform the desk officer of the nature of your visit. You will be directed to an available complaint writer who will record the details of the incident.
- Obtain the Complaint Number: Once the report is finalized, ensure you receive the official complaint tracking number. This number is mandatory for insurance claims, replacement identification, and following up with the assigned detective squad.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 104th Precinct
What neighborhoods fall under the jurisdiction of the 104th Precinct?
The 104th Precinct patrols the central Queens neighborhoods of Ridgewood, Maspeth, Middle Village, and Glendale. Patrol cars and specialized units monitor these specific residential and commercial boundaries daily.
How can I attend local precinct council meetings?
The 104th Precinct Community Council holds regular monthly meetings open to the public, typically announced on their official platforms or through local community boards. These meetings provide a direct forum to discuss safety concerns with precinct commanders and local leaders.
What is the difference between calling 911 and calling the 104th Precinct directly?
Dial 911 for all emergencies, crimes in progress, or situations requiring immediate police dispatch. Call the 104th Precinct directly at (718) 386-3008 for administrative inquiries, follow-up on existing reports, or general community outreach questions.
Can I file a police report online for incidents in Queens?
Certain minor property crimes with no suspect information—such as lost property or minor property damage—can be reported online through the official NYPD website using the Citizen Online Police Reporting System.
Who is the commanding officer of the 104th Precinct?
Command leadership assignments rotate periodically according to NYPD administrative schedules. To verify the current commanding officer or review local crime statistics, visit the official NYPD 104th Precinct web portal online.
How do I follow up on a previously filed complaint or property recovery?
Contact the precinct's main desk or the specific investigative squad handling your case, providing the unique complaint number assigned to you at the time of the initial report filing.
Conclusion and Community Engagement
Maintaining a safe community relies on strong partnerships between residents, local business owners, and the officers of the 104th Precinct. By staying informed about local jurisdictional boundaries, utilizing appropriate reporting channels, and participating in community council meetings, neighborhood stakeholders help ensure a secure environment across Ridgewood, Maspeth, Middle Village, and Glendale. For ongoing updates, community events, and safety alerts, reach out directly to the precinct's community affairs office or monitor official municipal safety announcements.
