Taking Helm of NYPD, Bratton Promises Reforms

William Bratton has taken over the nation’s largest police force and is pledging reforms to how New York City police officers work with the community.

The 66-year-old was sworn in Thursday by Mayor Bill de Blasio at a ceremony at police headquarters. Bratton says he will work to improve the relationship between cops and New Yorkers who feel over-policed by the department’s stop-and-frisk policy. He also says he will continue the department’s massive counterterrorism efforts.

Hundreds attended, including district attorneys, City Council members and federal prosecutors. Los Angeles civic leaders also attended. Bratton was police chief there until 2009.

Bratton returns to NYPD for the second time. He also was police commissioner from 1994-1996.