Overall crime incidents are down 13% year-to-date in the North End / Waterfront area. However, Boston Police District A-1 are seeing a contradiction in recent crime reports. Burglaries and break-ins are on the rise, while every other crime category is showing improvement.
At the June 2011 North End Public Safety Meeting held this week, Captain Bernard O’Rourke, Sgt. Tom Lema and Officer Teddy O’Boyle reviewed the latest crime statistics showing no homicides or sexual assaults so far in 2011 in the neighborhood. Police made two arrests associated with aggravated assaults. Both incidents were between known parties. A drug-related arrest was also made at 113 Endicott Street where a 57 year-old man was arrested for illegal drug (pills) distribution.
Police made an arrest of a known burglar and are hoping the rash of North End break-ins trends down. After showing some improvement earlier in the year, burglaries and break-ins were on the rise with 12 reports in May 2011, up from 2 last year. Many of the break-ins are in the same buildings on the same day. Multi-unit buildings on Commercial St. have been targeted as well as Salem, Foster, Hull and Prince streets.
“Keep Down the Noise” cards are being printed for distribution around the neighborhood. Captain O’Rourke also said officers are doing regular “walk-n-talks” on the midnight shift around Salem & Prince streets as well as near Hanover & Fleet streets.
There was only one reported “loud party” in the last 30 days at 14 Cooper St. Police responded and broke up a party of young professionals.
In answer to a question, Captain O’Rourke said they generally support bike lanes because they reduce vehicle traffic. However, he noted it is difficult to enforce bicycling laws.
Sidewalk signs – Sgt. Lema reported that the Department of Public Works is planning a citywide sweep of illegal sidewalk signs.
