NYPD is STILL guarding Christopher Columbus monuments 24/7 across NYC as Republican council member says they must be protected from 'psychotic leftists' tearing them down over 'a historical squabble' Police vehicles and barricades were still visible around at least five monuments in Manhattan, Brooklyn, The Bronx and Queens this week This is nine months after officers first set up guard around monuments It is not clear how much the round the clock protection is costing taxpayers It comes as New York state is grappling with a $15 billion budget deficit Statues, flags and displays of Confederate or racist symbols and historical figures have been taken down or toppled across America in recent months