Police chief seeks closure of stations; Arbor Hill, Pine Bush sites would be shuttered and technology updated.(Main)

Byline: BRIAN NEARING Staff Writer

ALBANY - Police Chief James Tuffey wants to close police stations in Arbor Hill and the Pine Bush by December.

The chief briefed Common Council members on his plan Thursday night, saying advanced computer technology makes it less important where police officers are stationed.

"It will allow us to increase the manpower in the street, where it is needed," Tuffey said during a meeting of the council's Public Safety Committee. "We will be able to provide constant supervision."

The chief also wants to eliminate most regular beat patrols in favor of a flexible unit of officers that would go to any neighborhood …