Story from the NY Post. I believe they are trying the same thing in DC and Philly.
http://nypost.com/2014/08/12/nypd-ordered-to-drive-around-flashing-lights-to-deter-crime/?utm_campaign=SocialFlow&utm_source=NYPFacebook&utm_medium=SocialFlow
http://nypost.com/2014/08/12/nypd-ordered-to-drive-around-flashing-lights-to-deter-crime/?utm_campaign=SocialFlow&utm_source=NYPFacebook&utm_medium=SocialFlow