NEW YORK (AP) – The New York Police Department is using undercover and plainclothes officers to respond to concerns about the topless, painted women who have become a summer sensation.
The officers blend in with tourists and try to spot trouble related to the women and others who troll Times Square for tips from tourists in exchange for photos.
Police say Times Square remains one of the safest spots in the city. But last week, two undercover officers arrested one of the topless women and her handler on drug and prostitution charges. Earlier that same night, a South Carolina businessman was arrested on charges he assaulted another topless woman he accused of stealing his wallet.
Police officials say the cases show the need for plainclothes enforcement.