Residents from the southside gathered at a community meeting at St. Anthony’s School on Thursday evening to discuss the recent rash of violence and crime that have taken over their neighborhood.
City Councilwoman Kathy Briggs was joined by Councilwoman Rosemary Christian and Councilman Bob Bialkowski along with the City of Batavia Police Department and about 65 residents of the 5th ward to discuss the recent escalation of violence and crime in the Central avenue, Jackson street , Watson and Thorpe street areas.
Police opened the conversation after updating the residents on the investigation into the stabbing death and shooting that occurred two weeks ago in the area of Central and Pringle avenue.
After a vicious assault that occurred on Mother’s day evening on Jackson street and Central avenue, Police have increased patrols in the area, despite having several officers out to injury and three vacant positions. Many officers are working overtime to cover the extra police presence in the area.
Some officers are on foot patrol and increased lighting on Central avenue along with the installation of a video camera have helped police tremendously the past few weeks.
Increased tip calls from neighbors in the area have also helped police in the past few weeks. Police are encouraging residents to contact police when they hear or see something that is suspicious.
Residents also discussed what could be done to help make landlords more accountable and the kids in the neighborhood more responsible for their actions.
According to Pastor Mary Macdonald with St. Anthony’s Church, every Tuesday night about 200 kids pass through the gym to play basketball and get something to eat. He says most of them do not have a parent at home and at times do not even know where their parent(s) are.
Many talked about changing the culture in the neighborhood and reaching out to those teens that are in need of guidance and help.
There was also a discussion on how to monitor landlords and how they choose people to rent too.
The City of Batavia Police say they are teaming up with the probation department to target parolees and getting assistance and back up from the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and State Police during the evening hours.