Hell's Kitchen Thieves Target iPhones and Aldo Shoe Stores

NYPD Midtown North Community Affairs Meeting – Tue 10/20/09

Crime Report

Over all crime is down; however there are two areas of crime increase

-- Organized iPhone theft ring

-- Organized purse thefts targeting Aldo shoe stores

+ Solution: Be conscious of where you put your iPhone, purse and other personal belongings. Don’t leave items out where others can easily snatch them. Keep your eyes on personal items at all times. NYPD officers say perpetrators intent on committing crimes often look at potential victims like hunters tracking prey. So be aware of people around you.

NYPD Community Programs

The NYPD Community Affairs Council offers a number of outreach programs including:

-- Counter terrorism tutorials

-- Anti-graffiti and vandalism campaigns

-- Civilian observation patrol training

-- Youth programs

+ NYPD representatives are available to attend BA meetings to instruct residents on tailored solutions for increasing security and safety.

Midtown Community Court

Midtown Community Court targets quality-of-life offenses, such as prostitution, illegal vending, graffiti, shoplifting, fare beating and vandalism. As part of their sentences, low-level offenders are ordered to pay back the neighborhood through community service. The court works with local residents, businesses, social service agencies and community organizations.

+ Midtown Community Court is interested in partnering with the W 55 St BA and the Spring Planting could be an ideal opportunity.

Community Concerns – Traffic

-- New green spaces on Broadway and Times Square could be increasing traffic on side streets and avenues west of Broadway.

-- DOT green spaces survey does not adequately address community issues.

-- Too many commercial trucks and buses on residential side streets.

-- Honking.

-- Pedicabs illegally parked and chained on residential streets.

-- Cars and trucks double parking in bicycle lanes.

+ Solution: More traffic agents and ticketing means more revenue for the city.

+ Solution: Contact DOT, call 311,

+ Solution: Idling and Tour/Charter Bus Town Hall meeting, November 12, 7:00-8:30 pm, Hudson Guild, 441 W 26 St between 9/10 Aves.

Community Concern – Nuisance Issues

-- Bars are too loud, unruly patrons on sidewalks, urination, vomiting, illegal sidewalk cafes.

+ Solution: Call 311, Call NYPD, Call owners, Call liquor licensing boards. Call in volume and document efforts

-- Problem corner between Hale & Hearty Soup and parking garage

+ Solution: Contact owner about installing light

The Midtown North Precinct Community Affairs meeting is every third Tuesday of the month at 7:30 PM at the Fountain House, 425 W 47th Street