"Every time we're out there, our goal is to deal with the worst of the worst," said Joseph Commisso, a former Syracuse Police Crime Reduction Team officer.

Commisso was part of a small unit, tasked with a big responsibility. The Crime Reduction Team spent each day proactively policing high-risk areas, conducting up to 20 stops a night.

"Our goal, and we took pride in it, was to do the best job we could in eliminating those problems whether it be shots fired, weapon possessions, whether it be a significant amount of drug sales,” said Commisso.

Now the unit that became experts at stopping violence, no longer exists. The police chief says it's due to staffing shortages.

Some officers are worried the ripple effects will be felt on the streets.

"It's been bad,” said Jeff Piedmonte, the Syracuse Police Benevolent Association president. “Officers are reluctant to be proactive and stop anybody. So, that was the only unit stopping cars, stopping people on the streets. So, I do think this will have a drastic effect on the department and the city."

"I just think they're needed,” said Commisso. “A proactive police unit in an urban environment is a necessity. I don't think it's an option."

Chief Kenton Buckner says he's concerned, too.

"We still have some avenues we are able to address those areas that they would historically be responsible for,” said Buckner. “But we certainly recognize the work they were doing is important and we will certainly try to push forward with those efforts."

Buckner hopes to bring back a similar unit, but he has to fill the 40 vacancies first.

"We want them to be competent, qualified and strong background,” said Buckner. “And also want to be a part of the solution of the many challenges we see in Syracuse."

"Somebody has to do it,” said Commisso. “We're going to need people to do it. Hopefully someone stands up and makes that decision."

Buckner says there are 33 recruits training right now. Mayor Ben Walsh has already authorized another class to start training after they graduate.