NYPD encrypts Staten Island radio frequencies, leaving reporters and enthusiasts with silence

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Radio traffic for Staten Island’s four police precincts went off-air Thursday as part of a long-term plan by the city to update outdated equipment while encrypting NYPD radio frequencies throughout the five boroughs.

“Currently Staten Island radio zones are being upgraded off dated infrastructure and onto new digital infrastructure,’’ a spokesperson for the NYPD’s Deputy Commissioner of Public Information confirmed to the Advance/SILive.com. “Once completed, the Staten Island radio frequencies will be encrypted.”