Can a Private Safety Patrol in Federal Hill Reduce Crime?

Residents of Federal Hill are increasingly concerned about a rise in quality-of-life crimes, particularly a recent surge in vehicle vandalism. Local patrols, supported by the community, are stepping in to help address these issues.

Last updated: 30 October 2023 (BST)

Understanding the Surge in Quality-of-Life Crimes

Quality-of-life crimes, often considered minor offences, can significantly impact the peace and security of a neighbourhood. In Federal Hill, residents have reported a troubling increase in these types of crimes, especially vehicle vandalism.

• Frustration among residents due to repeated vehicle break-ins.
• Concerns regarding police resource allocation and effectiveness.
• Community-driven security efforts through organisations like MATCOM.
• Collaboration between MATCOM and the Baltimore Police Department (BPD).
• The potential for MATCOM to evolve into a non-profit organisation.

What Are Quality-of-Life Crimes?

Quality-of-life crimes encompass a range of minor offences that can diminish the living experience in a community. These include vandalism, public drunkenness, loitering, and petty theft. Although individual incidents may seem trivial, their cumulative effect can lead to a perception of insecurity and decline in community cohesion.

The Recent Wave of Vehicle Vandalism

In Federal Hill, the issue of vehicle vandalism has become particularly pronounced. Residents like one individual who found their girlfriend’s passenger side window smashed express their frustration, describing it as "annoying." Such incidents not only cause financial strain due to repairs but also foster a sense of unease in the neighbourhood.

Community Reactions to the Vandalism

Local residents have voiced their concerns about the rise in vandalism. Comments range from light-hearted remarks about potential records for car window smashing to serious worries about ongoing safety. "If there’s a world record for smashing car windows, this should be on the list," one resident quipped, illustrating a mix of humour and frustration in the community.

Concerns About Police Resources

Amid rising crime rates, residents have expressed their concerns about police resources in Federal Hill. Some community members appreciate the police efforts in the business district but question the sustainability of these initiatives.

Resource Allocation and Community Safety

Major Brian Askew of the MATCOM Office of Public Safety addressed these concerns, highlighting the importance of their collaboration with the Baltimore Police Department (BPD). Askew emphasised that MATCOM is dedicated to enhancing public safety, especially as BPD faces challenges related to officer shortages. "We had an invested interest in protecting the residents in the city of Baltimore," he stated, underlining MATCOM's role as a supplementary safety measure.

The Role of MATCOM in Enhancing Public Safety

MATCOM is a community-funded organisation that provides additional patrolling in the Federal Hill area. Operating primarily from June through October, they serve as a visible deterrent to crime and assist local law enforcement when necessary.

Collaboration with the Baltimore Police Department

According to Askew, MATCOM works closely with the BPD, with both entities having access to each other's dispatch systems. This collaboration is intended to ensure a quicker response to crimes in progress and enhance overall community safety. "If there is a crime in progress in front of us, we’re able to detain those individuals until we can get some units from the city to help us out," Askew explained.

Impact on Crime Rates

As a result of MATCOM's efforts, Askew believes that certain crimes in Federal Hill have seen a decline. "I think our work on the ground is very impactful," he asserted, aiming to dispel the misconception that their presence is merely passive. "It’s an extra pair of eyes, extra pair of hands if need be," he added, highlighting their proactive role in crime prevention.

Addressing Officer Shortages

The shortage of officers within the BPD has necessitated a more substantial reliance on community initiatives like MATCOM. Askew noted that while the department might have 10 to 15 officers on duty during a shift, emergencies can quickly deplete those numbers, especially in the event of serious incidents such as shootings. This gap is where MATCOM steps in, providing crucial support and maintaining a visible presence in the community.

The Future of MATCOM

Currently, MATCOM operates with limited funding, leading to their seasonal patrols. However, they hope to transition into a non-profit organisation next year, which would enable them to secure additional funding and extend their services throughout the year. This move could significantly enhance their capacity to support community safety beyond the summer months.

Conclusion

The surge in quality-of-life crimes in Federal Hill, particularly vehicle vandalism, has prompted residents to seek additional safety measures. With the support of community-driven organisations like MATCOM and ongoing collaboration with the Baltimore Police Department, there is hope for a safer environment. As residents remain vigilant, the potential for MATCOM to grow into a non-profit highlights a proactive approach to community safety. What further measures could be implemented to enhance the safety and well-being of Federal Hill residents?

#FederalHill #CommunitySafety #MATCOM

FAQs

What types of crimes are considered quality-of-life crimes?

Quality-of-life crimes include minor offences such as vandalism, petty theft, loitering, and public drunkenness, which can negatively impact a community's living experience.

How is MATCOM funded?

MATCOM is funded solely by residents, allowing them to provide additional patrolling services in the Federal Hill area. They are exploring options to become a non-profit organisation for more sustainable funding.

What is MATCOM's role in relation to BPD?

MATCOM collaborates with the Baltimore Police Department to provide an additional layer of public safety. They assist in responding to crimes and act as a visible deterrent in the community.

How can residents report crimes in Federal Hill?

Residents can report crimes to the Baltimore Police Department directly or, in ongoing situations, inform MATCOM patrols who can act until police assistance arrives.

What are the operational months for MATCOM?

Currently, MATCOM operates from June through October, but they hope to extend their services year-round by becoming a non-profit organisation in the near future.