Residents, police join against crime

By Vanessa Truell
Staff Reporter

On Tuesday, August 6, the 44th precinct held a National Night Out Against Crime event at the Jerome Avenue stationhouse. Local police wanted to heighten awareness and strengthen participation in local anti-crime and drug prevention efforts.

Deputy Inspector James O'Neill, commanding officer of the 44th precinct, greeted a crowd of about 150 Bronx residents. Mr. O'Neill said he is dedicated to bridging the gap between local police officers and the Highbridge community by maintaining an "open door" policy for residents. He wants residents to become familiar with patrol officers and wants to break down the barriers of communication that keep residents at arm's length from the local police department.

Mr. O'Neill spoke about crime statistics and also spoke about the monthly meetings of the 44th precinct's community council. Those meetings are held every second Wednesday of the month at the Andrew Friedman home, 1072 Grand Concourse. The next meeting, however, has been rescheduled to Thursday, September 12. For more information about the meetings, call the 44th precinct's community affairs office at (718) 590-5524 or (718) 590-5527.

Bronx District Attorney Robert Johnson was also on hand for the event. Mr. Johnson enlightened some of the children of Highbridge about his responsibilities. A representative from New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg's office was also on hand with a proclamation. There was also a presentation by representatives from the "Star Program," which helps drug-addicted individuals find assistance for themselves or someone in need, and a short concert by the members of Highbridge Voices, a local choir.

The first National Night Out was held in 1984. The event is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, a nonprofit crime prevention organization that works in conjunction with crime watch groups, law enforcement agencies, and precincts nationally.