Tenants unite against crime

By Denáe Brewer
Editor-in-chief

Crime hit a little too close to home for tenants of 1020 Summit Avenue. Concerned about their safety, they took matters into their own hands.

On February 6, residents of 1020 Summit met with police officials after someone was found murdered in their building.

The murder, which was the catalyst for the meeting, took place late last month. In the early evening of January 31, Todd Jackson, 39, was found dead from a gunshot wound on the roof of 1020 Summit.

“It was a monetary dispute,” said Sergeant McCormack of the 44th precinct. “The victim definitely knew his assailant.”

Police have a suspect in custody. Deshawn Jackson, 18 (no relation to the victim), who lived in the building, according to police, is charged with murder and awaiting trial.

Calling for greater communication with the police, residents showed an interest in the N.Y.P.D.’s “Clean Halls Program.” Clean Halls is a citywide initiative. In the 44th precinct, there are approximately 355 buildings signed up for the program.

“It is definitely a crime deterrent,” said Sergeant McCormack.

Any building can participate in the program. Landlords sign an affidavit giving the police the authority to search the common areas of a building — including rooftops and stairwells — for illegal activity. Police are supplied a key to the front entrance, if applicable, and do periodic searches.

“The meeting was great,” said Sergeant McCormack. “The tenants asked for it. This proves how much people want to be involved.”

Pleased with the turnout, Sergeant McCormack was not surprised by the resident’s enthusiasm. “Instead of them yelling at us, they asked us what can they do to help us.”

Sergeant McCormack credits much of the positive responses to efforts made by the precinct’s commanding officer, Deputy Inspector James O’Neill, and the officers of the precinct. “I think residents are understanding that we are there to help,” Sergeant McCormack explained. They are seeing that the whole [judicial] process goes beyond just the police and we must all work together.”