Guyanese-born, Deputy Inspector Deodat Urprasad is soft spoken, but his presence in the New York City Police Department is a powerful reminder that it does not matter where you come from, your contribution could leave an indelible mark on the lives you touch every day.
Just recently, Urprasad who is the commanding officer of the 102nd Prescient in Richmond Hill, Queens was presented with two awards, within two weeks. He received the Legacy Award from the Queens Tribune, and later Public Advocate Letitia James presented the officer with a Caribbean Heritage Month Proclamation in recognition of his outstanding work in the community.
A long time resident of Queens, the officer said he was humbled by the recognition he received for his work in the community, but added that creating lasting bonds and treating the community with respect made his work in law enforcement rewarding.
Urprasad’s story about an immigrant coming to the United States for a better life and to pursue educational opportunities may sound familiar, but his speaks volumes. His determination, hard work and commitment to his community are what kept him in the NYCPD, for 25 years.
After obtaining a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science from York College, with plans to pursue a career in law, officer Urprasad took a detour and joined the Little Flowers Children Services foster care agency while continuing his education at John Jay College of Criminal Justice from where he obtained a Master’s Degree in Public Administration.
During this time he graduated from the Police Academy and began his career as a housing cop.
Urparsad worked his way up clocking hours throughout the boroughs learning how to end conflict, and avoid arrests of residents whom he had fostered good relationships, many whom he said, were model citizens.
After being appointed sergeant in 1999, and transferred to the 79th Precinct, and the Brooklyn North Evidence Collection Team, he was promoted to lieutenant in December 2002, where he served in the 41st Precinct,
The decorated career officer was promoted to captain in June 2007 and worked in the Bronx as the executive officer of the 45th and 43rd Precincts and Impact Zone Captain in the 40th and 41st Precincts.
His role in helping to reduce the crime rate in his jurisdiction has been commended. For this, he was awarded the rank of deputy inspector in 2015, and commanding officer of the 102nd Precinct.
Officer Urprasad often times found himself out in the community, bringing along his fellow officers, to engage citizens in their day-to-day duties.
After migrating to the United States with his parents in August 1973, exactly 44 years ago, at age 5, it could be said this officer truly personifies discipline in his quest to achieve the American dream, as he continues his love of law enforcement.
“I am happy to share this moment with my family and friends,” said the officer who lauded his brothers in blue and thanking them for the support they have given him over the years.
“I have some great men and women in the 102nd Precinct,” he said, attributing a 41 percent reduction in crime to his work, since he took the position in 2015.
Learning to treat residents with respect, is what the officer has held on to during his career, a characteristic that “transcend into his kind of management style,” said Urprasad, the youngest of eight children whose parents instilled in them the importance of education and hard work for success.
