District A-1 Police said that North End / Waterfront crime incidents trended up during 2010, although the overall numbers remain near multi-year low levels. The police reviewed the numbers with about 25 residents that attended the January 6th Public Safety meeting at the Nazzaro Center.
There were 70 more crimes in 2010 versus the prior year bringing the total to 341. Increases were seen in all areas except homicides where there were none. Most of the added incidents were assaults, burglaries and larcenies (see chart below).
Captain Bernard O’Rourke said that the neighborhood crime numbers were following similar trends seen throughout the city. In 2011, the police have a 10% crime reduction target and District A-1 will be focusing more on quality of life incidents.
“Our walking beat officers have been doing a good job,” said O’Rourke. “While the incidents are up somewhat, I see this as mostly a positive given the historically low level.” The police noted the tips and help of the community during the assaults experienced during the past year. “We made some good arrests,” said O’Rourke.
2010 Crime Statistics for the North End / Waterfront area. (Source: Boston Police)New Year’s Eve was uneventful this year in terms of crime incidents. Police were surprised at the well-behaved crowds given the warm weather. In the last 30 days, there was one assault on Cross Street between a dating couple. In addition, there was one fire escape break-in on Hanover Street where a laptop and clothing were stolen. The police discovered blood evidence which could help identify the suspect.
Larcenies from motor vehicles continue to be a problem, mostly due to GPS systems being targeted. December also saw four stolen car reports although one was a victim that forgot where he/she parked.
Coming up, the police are training for riot patrol in the case of a Patriots Super Bowl win/loss.
The Police opened a fake pawn shop, “MIB,” in Downtown Crossing for 5 weeks. The shop took in a lot of stolen goods where police video-taped the transactions, gained warrants and made 25 arrests. Interestingly, none of the victims figured out the MIB stands for “Men in Blue.”
Sgt. Lema noted the police worked with a Roslindale benefactor, Gourmet Caterers, to deliver full turkey dinners to needy families over the holidays, including two in the North End. The Police also supported the annual NEAA Christmas Parade.
Loud Party Update
Since the college semester ended, there have only been 5 calls in the North End for loud parties. One repeat address is 61 Prince Street. Police also noted that many of the recent calls have been from apartments owned by young professionals, not college students.
Stephanie Hogue, NEWRA President, asked the police about their view of recent North End restaurant applications to extend hours to 1:00 a.m.
Captain O’Rourke said the police consistently oppose the extension of hours. “It strains our resources. If you allow one, the flood-gates will open and soon, you will have 2:00 a.m. licenses everywhere.” The Captain noted recent problems at downtown clubs where large-scale fights (30-40 people) have been breaking out.
The next Public Safety meeting will be held on Thursday, February 3, 2011, 6:30 p.m. at the Nazzaro Center, 30 N. Bennet Street. North End / Waterfront residents are encouraged to attend.
