<P> In 1970, the first woman was allowed to take the test for Police Administrative Aides, and the first women were hired from the Police Administrative List . Also in that year, Police Commissioner Murphy assigned the first group of women to patrol . In 1973, the Bureau of Policewomen was abolished, and the first gender - neutral civil service exam for police officers was held . Also in that year, "Policewomen" and "Patrolmen" were officially renamed "Police Officers". </P> <P> In 1974, Gertrude Schimmel was appointed as the first female Inspector . In 1976, Captain Vittoria Renzullo was appointed as the first Precinct Commander . In 1977, the first women were assigned to the Homicide Unit (there were nine of them). In 1978, Gertrude Schimmel was appointed as the first female Deputy Chief . Also in that year, the Department entered into an agreement to increase the number of female detectives . </P> <P> In 1981, Suzanne Medicis became the first woman to receive the Combat Cross, and Sharon Fields and Tanya Braithwaite became the first women to receive the NYPD's Medal of Honor . In 1984, Irma Lozada became the first female police officer killed in the line of duty . Also in 1984, Mary Bembry became the first woman shot in the line of duty . </P> <P> In 1985, the first Women in Policing Conference was held . In 1987, Paula Berlinerman and Joan Clark were appointed as the first civilian women Civil Service Managers . In 1988, Mary Lowery became the first female police officer assigned to the Aviation Unit . </P>

First female police officer in new york city