Woman is first Latina commanding officer for NYC Family Court

QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) -- Major Erica Prosper is the first Latina commanding officer for New York City Family Court in Queens County.

Hundreds of cases come through every day in Queens County Family Court. Prosper is in charge of safety and security. She is in charge of 69 court officers, 30 courtrooms and countless families.

It’s a huge responsibility, but Prosper said it gives her the opportunity to be a positive force. PIX11 News followed her for an afternoon and saw her transform at times from an officer to a social worker.

Prosper is Puerto Rican and came from humble beginnings. She was raised by a single mother in the Edenwald section of the Bronx. Her mother, Nidia Rodriguez, instilled in her that she could do anything. She believes it.

Prosper is the first Latina to hold the high-ranking position in New York City Family Court. She feels she was designed for it.

Prosper hopes that everyone who walks into her courtroom feels her compassion and her love for her community.