The Mount Vernon Police Benevolent Association is threatening to sue the city for allegedly forcing cops to work overtime.

PBA President Kevin Mandel says the city's need to respond to a recent streak of violence led to three officers being "illegally" forced to work overtime.

Last week, the union sent a letter to the city claiming the officers had just finished working from 4 p.m. to midnight on Wednesday, but were forced to return to duty from midnight to 8 a.m. Thursday. The letter claims the practice is against state law except in emergency situations. Mandel says if it ever happens again, the city will face a lawsuit.

Mount Vernon Police Commissioner David Chong issued a statement saying, "We will protect the people in the City of Mount Vernon whatever way we can."

Mandel believes the answer lies with adding 50 officers to the force of 190. However, the mayor has said in the past that's not the solution.

"I'm worried for their morale. I'm worried for their health and safety," Mandel said.