Ralph Friedman, NYPD’s most decorated detective visits city hall

Some people may have never heard of Ralph Friedman, but those in the law enforcement community or have watched his TV series “Street Justice: The Bronx” know that Ralph Friedman is the most decorated detective in NYPD’s 170-year history, with over 2000 arrests and 100 off-duty arrests and was involved in 15 shootings. He earned 219 NYPD awards and 36 civilian honors while working at the notorious 41st precinct in the South Bronx known as “Fort Apache”. Tragically, his career was cut short after being involved in an on-duty car wreck while responding to an officer needs assistance call resulting in 23 broken bones in his body and landing him in the hospital for months.

Friedman was arguably the toughest cop ever to wear the shield. He served during the city’s most dire times: the 1970’s and 1980’s when fiscal crisis and surging drug use were just a few of the problems.

“When you first meet Ralph Friedman, his appearance would make you think he was more like a biker than a cop with his numerous tattoos,” said retired Danbury Police Officer Lee Teicholz, who made the arrangements for Ralph to visit city hall after Mayor Mark Boughton said that he would like to meet him.

Mayor Boughton presented Ralph with a gold coin of the Seal of the City of Danbury and Ralph provided Mayor Boughton with an autographed copy of his book, “Street Warrior: The True Story of the NYPD’s Most Decorated Detective and the Era That Created Him.”

While Boughton stated that it was quite an honor to meet Friedman, Ralph said that he was equally honored to meet Mayor Boughton knowing that he was the longest running mayor to serve the city. Mayor Boughton thanked Ralph for his service as well as all of those in the law enforcement community who put their lives on the line everyday.

Afterwards, retired Councilwoman Mary Teicholz gave Friedman a tour of city hall including the various city departments of government as well as the City Council chambers.

Ralph Friedman’s book “Street Warrior: The True Story of the NYPD’s Most Decorated Detective and the Era That Created Him” is available for purchase on Amazon.