Meet Captain Charles Minch, New Commanding Officer Of PSA 3

New York City public housing in northern and central Brooklyn has a new police leader with the arrival of Captain Charles Minch as commanding officer of Public Service Area (PSA) 3, which oversees 22 housing developments — including Farragut, Ingersoll, Whitman, and Lafayette Gardens.

For anyone who has never heard of PSA 3, they are similar to police precincts — local law enforcement for specific neighborhoods. PSA 3 covers public housing in the 79th, 81st, 84th, 88th, and 90th Precincts.

A 17-year-veteran of the NYPD, Minch is from Long Island and took over the role from the previous commanding officer last Monday, July 27 and arrives on the heels of several recent shootings and stabbings in the area.

We had a chance to meet and chat with him at last night’s National Night Out Against Crime event at the Whitman Houses courtyard. Here’s what he said about his background, goals and challenges.

Where have you worked in the NYPD? Is this your first time in Housing?

I just came from the 73 Precinct [in Ocean Hill-Brownsville], where I was executive officer (aka second in command) for three years. This is my first Housing role.

What are your goals for your tenure here?

I want to continue to try to reduce crime and violence, and get to know the community members, clergy, and community council meetings.

What challenges do you feel you face?

I am working on following my predecessor’s system in reducing crime.

What is your favorite thing about this community here in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill?

I enjoy seeing how residents come together at events like this and on Family Days.

How can residents contact you and your officers with questions and concerns?

You can contact our Community Affairs office at 347-386-4537.

PSA 3 meets monthly between September and June on the 1st Wednesday of every month at 7pm at the Brooklyn Job Corps Center located at 585 DeKalb Avenue Brooklyn, N.Y. 11205. No meetings are held in July and August.