Environmental Conservation Police on Patrol

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) Division of Law Enforcement enforces the 71 chapters of New York State's Environmental Conservation Law (ECL), protecting fish and wildlife and preserving environmental quality across New York. In 1880, the first eight Game Protectors proudly began serving to protect the natural resources and people of New York State. In 2023, the Division of Law Enforcement fielded more than 101,500 calls, resulting in Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs) and Investigators across the state responding to more than 30,932 complaints and working on cases that resulted in nearly 16,900 tickets or arrests for violations ranging from deer poaching to solid waste dumping, illegal mining, the illegal pet trade, and excessive emissions violations.     

 "Environmental Conservation Police Officers and Investigators serving in DEC's Division of Law Enforcement are working tirelessly across the state to protect natural resources and public safety while holding poachers and polluters accountable," DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said. "DEC looks forward to continuing to work with our local, State, and federal law enforcement partners to ensure compliance with New York's stringent environmental conservation laws and promote the safe and responsible enjoyment of the outdoors."   

General Assembly Security - New York City
ECOs recently provided security during the 79^th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Global leaders met at New York City headquarters from Sept. 10 - 28 to discuss complex crises and conflicts around the world.

ECOs were assigned to maritime security in partnership with the U.S. Secret Service and Coast Guard to enforce a temporary no-fly zone for unmanned aerial systems, or drones, around the East River. The Officers also provided security at local airports for helicopters transporting dignitaries in the New York City area.

These types of security assignments are not traditional ECO duties. However, ECO involvement in homeland security has increased in recent years since DEC Officers possess unique equipment and training that bolsters security efforts by federal authorities and strengthens federal, State, and local partnerships overall.

DEC Division of Law Enforcement provides maritime security during 79^th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City

Law Enforcement ground team interviews a drone operator who violated a no-fly zone near the East River during the United Nations General Assembly in New York City