Officers & Community Restore Safety To Neighborhood

Over the past several weeks, officers observed a problem area that had begun rapidly growing on S 146th St near Military Rd S. Problems included an influx of trash, stolen luggage/property, narcotic related activity, narcotic paraphernalia, electrical boxes and utility boxes being broken into and an abandoned condemned building, illegal encampments and junked cars being used as hubs for criminal activity. The area is home to an elementary school, apartment complexes with many families and residents who informed officers that they didn’t feel safe leaving their homes or waiting at the school bus stop.

Officers quickly began citing, warning and towing the abandoned vehicles and other vehicles reported as being utilized for criminal activity. Two illegal encampments were removed, known individuals present with histories of narcotic related possession/distribution arrests that were loitering in the area were trespassed from the properties and or taken into custody for warrants and regular patrols commenced to deter future criminal activity.

The efforts culminated this morning with a a TPD and community organized cleanup of the area utilizing Community Policing Through Environmental Design (CPTED) methods. Over 30, 55-gallon bags of trash were filled and removed. Graffiti was painted over with art. Electric panels were secured. Overgrowth along the streets and buildings was removed and a strong message was sent that the area belongs to the community.

Thank you local businesses RoofCorp of WA, Fresh & Green Halal market, current, former and prospective elected officials and residents who came out to make a difference for those that live in and work in this area. Everyone has a right to feel safe and secure in their neighborhoods.