Crime & Safety

70th Precinct Appeals to Community to Combat Crime

"No one knows your community, your place of business more than you do," said Inspector Philip Van Gostein.

 

Fostering a sense of community and building means of communication are key factors to bringing down and preventing crime in the 70th Precinct, according to officials who spoke at the 70th Precinct Community Council Meeting Thurs., Sept. 27.

The meeting was the council's first of the season since it broke for summer hiatus earlier this year. "We're ready to rock and roll," said Ed Powell, president of the 70th Precinct Community Council, noting that he would like as many people as possible to participate in the council's affairs. 

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Inspector Philip Van Gostein, NYPD Patrol Borough Brooklyn South Counter-Terrorism Coordinator, spoke of his position as someone who informs and precents terrorism. "I have a lot in common with this guy," he joked, reffering to the Halloween statue of the Grim Reaper standing behind him. "I kind of scare people."

He stressed the importance of staying alert and not being afraid to say something when a situation seems suspicious. "We need your help," he said. "No one knows your community, your place of business more than you." 

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He said to report anything out of the ordinary, such as people taking pictures of unusual subjects, including stairwells or subway stations, bags left unattended and anything else that makes a person uncomfortable. Anonymous calls can be made to 1-888-NYC-SAFE with any tip.

Deputy Inspector Eric Rodriguez agreed, noting that tips from residents led to several arrests related to a string of break-ins earlier this year. "Communication is vital," he said. "If you see something, say something."

He added that people should feel comfortable calling the police when something happens that they feel is wrong. "Don't feel stupid, give us a call," he said. "We need to do our job."

Council members Jumaane Williams and Mathieu Eugene, D-Ditmas Park, were also at the meeting and commended the police for a job well done in keeping the community safe, but added that the community must do its part to help the effort. 

"Keeping the community safe is not easy," Eugene said. "It is not only the duty of the police department. We have to do more than what we are doing." 

The next council meeting will take place on Oct. 24, as the usual Wednesday date coincides with Halloween. The 70th Precinct Community Affairs office can be reached at any time at 718-851-5557. 


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