The summer crime wave has begun and the West end of the neighborhood has been systematically burglarized for the past 2 weeks. Incidents of breaking and entering, and harrassment, have blossomed with the warm weather and inception of gang activity in the Skinker-DeBaliviere area.
The 7th District Police are well aware of the situation and have responded with additional surveillance when it has been requested; however, unless they are called IMMEDIATELY upon sighting any suspicious activity there is little chance of apprehending or preventing thieves from scoring.
Two programs are being established to fight crime. The Block Watchers are being expanded to include any interested people who are at home during the daytime hours. A second plan under discussion by Cal Stuart and several other men in the area is to set up night partols similar to those on the 60-6100 blocks of Washington during the peak crime hours in the evening, from 10-12 p.m..
It is necessary to build a climate of community participation to solve this severe problem. Knowing and talking with neighbors is an essential first step in crime prevention.
The police will cooperate as much as their economic resources allow, but that is not enough. Unless people take on the responsibility of getting involved….if only to the extent of calling the police first; and meeting their neighbors…. the harrassment will continue. Neighborhood power can cut crime!
Anyone interested in either the Block Watcher’s program or the Night patrols should call Cal Stuart, president of Rosedale Skinker, PA1-0053.
Originally published in The Paper, June 1970.
