As friction intensifies between the NYPD and the communities it serves, an expert is offering advice on how to mend relations.

Bill Stanton, a former NYPD officer and security consultant, says residents need to acknowledge the 35,000 men and women of the police department who choose to risk their lives daily in order for residents to be safe.

"A police officer is the only profession in the city to run to the trouble," Stanton said.

He also says the NYPD should understand the point of view of the citizens they serve, which he says the majority of police officers already do.

Stanton says if an individual feels an officer is wrong they can make a civilian complaint and ask for a sergeant. 

He says efforts including the appreciation vigil that occurred outside the 50th Precinct Monday and the 66th Precinct Tuesday in Brooklyn is a great start to end tension.