This continues the successful program of last summer in Harbordale, Childs Park and Palmetto Park. Some of the achievements were: no homicides at a time when gang violence made killings likely, 27% reduction in violent crime, 17% reduction in gun crimes, many tips that helped close drug houses and a better relationship with residents.
The Chief talked of a 30% reduction in crime in this neighborhood since last year. We still battle a perception of crime due to several high profile crimes.
Please get involved to make this a permanent transformation of Bartlett Park. By the end of this summer we expect to see the type of gains other neighborhoods saw last summer. Its up to us to keep the peace by working with the neighborhood association and crime watch to keep drugs from returning.
Come out next Tuesday to the crime watch meeting to learn how to take advantage of CAPE II. You can make your home and block safer.
This story and St. Petersburg police spokesman William Proffitt's article give more detail.
Tune in to the news tonight for more.
From Bay News 9:
St. Petersburg Police have launched a new initiative called CAPE, or Community and Police Engagement, to reduce crime.
They're trying it in three historic St. Petersburg neighborhoods; Bartlett Park, Grand Central and Historic Kenwood.
Police officers assigned to CAPE will visit every home in these neighborhoods to meet with the residents, listens to their concerns and provide them with important information.
"I think communication is the main thing we need, people need to get to know one another and stop being afraid," said Betty Hayes, President of Bartlett Park Neighborhood Association.
Police Chief Chuck Harmon says the CAPE program has reduced crime in three neighborhoods tested last year.
"Our intention is to knock on each and every door in each neighborhood or business corridor and make contact with as many residents as we possible can," he said.
Police hope the personal interactions will persuade residents to get involved and encourage them to pass along crime tip information too.
Harmon said the overall crime trend is down in Bartlett Park, although the community's perception is that it's not as safe as other areas of the city.
One crime that peaked in the neighborhood is robberies.
Now, Harmon said he wants to send a message to residents and criminals in these neighborhoods.
"We're not going to put up with criminal behavior," he said. "I'm going to send a message if you're out there committing crimes, especially in these three neighborhoods, over the next three months your going to get caught."
The three areas the CAPE program has been successful in are Harbordale, Palmetto Park and Childs Park. Violent crimes there declined 26 percent, comparing the summer of 2007 to 2008.
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