A dozen Maspeth residents met with officers from the 104th Precinct last week to discuss local police issues including larceny and traffic.
Captain Michael A. Cody, commanding officer of the 104th precinct, reported that compared to last year, total crime in the area is down 16 percent over the past 28 days. Burglaries decreased by 40 percent over the past 28 days. However, there were 42 grand larcenies, a 16 percent increase compared to last year.
With a reported increase in car theft, the Captain advised residents take precautions, especially late at night. The precinct has found that foreign cars are being targeted for their wheels and rims, including Toyotas, Acuras, Hondas and Nissans.
“Cut your wheels to the curb and park tight. They have to get them (rims) in pairs or fours,” said Captain Cody. By parking close or on the curb, there is less room to fit the tire iron between the lug nuts and the curb. He also suggested putting locks on the wheels.
Concern was also raised over traffic problems near P.S. 153. Many parents double park in front of the school when dropping their children off. Although it has been mentioned at PTA meetings, residents are again asking that parents discontinue this practice. They block the cross walk, forcing their children to walk in the middle of the road. “They’re the ones who are going to get their kids hurt,” said one resident.
In other school related news, I.S. 73 on 54th Avenue, will be housing kindergarten and first grade students during the 2011-2012 school year. The Board of Education announced at a safety meeting last spring that the crossing guard would not be returning in the fall. With 150 elementary students – many living in close vicinity of the school – more students will be walking to and from school than in previous years. Cody said he will make arrangements to speak with the school board about reinstating the crossing guard.
An increase in graffiti on the “penny bridge” in West Maspeth was also discussed. Three weeks ago, three men were arrested on the bridge for graffiti. The men were found with a photograph and paint while officers were responding to a nearby accident. A week later, officers volunteered for graffiti cleaning in the area. More cleanings are being scheduled.
Captain Cody, who began working as the captain of the precinct eight weeks ago, was thanked by the residents at the meeting for the work he has done in the short period of time he has been working with the community.
by Shannon Farrell
