Everyone, Including Cops, Needs To Wear A Mask: Mayor

NEW YORK CITY — All New Yorkers need to mask up as the coronavirus surges and temperatures drop — and that includes city agencies like the NYPD, Mayor Bill de Blasio said.

The city’s top doctor Health Commissioner Dave Chokshi on Monday issued the recommendation with de Blasio by his side.

De Blasio then faced a question from Wall Street Journal reporter Katie Hogan about many NYPD officers — including some at a recent protest — who simply don’t wear masks. She asked what city officials will do to make sure its employees practice what they preach.

“I think there has been some real progress, I think there has to be more, and I think there has to be consequences for anyone who doesn't wear a mask,” de Blasio said.

It’s no secret that maskless NYPD officers are an everyday sight in the city — there’s even a Twitter account called “NYPD Mask Watch” devoted to sightings.

De Blasio has admonished cops for not wearing masks, albeit mostly when prompted by reporter questions. His comment Monday is the latest that fits the pattern.

Chokshi asked all New Yorkers to wear a mask both indoors and outdoors at all times they’re outside their homes.

“That includes when you're getting together with people whom you know well, whether they're friends or relatives beyond your immediate family,” he said. “The virus takes advantage of our familiarity and often transmits in smaller social gatherings, such as birthday parties, or friends gathering to watch the big game.”