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Police cleaning up Sullivant, seeking help from buinesses
(by Whitney Wilson Coy, Westside Editor - September 03, 2009)
The Columbus Division of Police is stepping up its efforts to clean up one of the busiest thoroughfares on the Westside, but they need the cooperation of area businesses if it’s going to work.
According to Sgt. Joseph Horton, the Division has been focusing on Sullivant Avenue east of Hague in their efforts to target criminal activity in the area. They are looking at major crimes, such as weapons, drugs and prostitution, as well as minor offenses such as speeding.
“We’ve given out quite a few tickets in that area. Especially with all the morning commuters,” he said.
One unexpected problem they’ve encountered, says Horton, is unwillingness from area businesses to clean up their properties.
He added that while overgrown grass and excessive litter may not cause crime to increase, “It’s certainly not a part of the solution.”
“Weeds, growth and trash are present at several of the businesses in that area,” said Horton, “When you look at other parts of town where things are cleaned up, they don’t have the problems that we do, so you’ve just got to wonder.”
Horton says he has sent officers into businesses asking for help with noxious weeds and litter.
According to Horton, there has been very little compliance.
He thinks the business owners may not understand the law.
“Maybe they don’t know it’s their responsibility. Maybe they don’t know the codes,” Horton said.
“There’s an effort that we need to make with letting these people know that they are in violation,” he added.
Horton also said that while some residences along Sullivant are also in violation, they are not the biggest problem.
“Home owners are much more receptive and quick to respond than business owners,” he said.
“We’ll take on the prostitutes and the gangbangers and the drug dealers,” said Horton. “They just need to clean up their properties.”
| Comments (4) |
On October 1, 2009 fred said:
thats great get that area cleaned up especially between odgen and warren street,there is a current house that needs cleaned up don't wanna give address and names but, he knows who he is .... |
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On September 16, 2009 Melody said:
I should think the business owners would want to gladly help with this endevor. Good business practice such as keeping up on your property is good for all who have small businesses on the westside. Small business is the fondation of this country and we all need to pull together on this one. Thank you CPD for taking on this task. |
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On September 12, 2009 Vicki said:
This project is much needed and long overdue. I am in agreement that the bi-lingual community needs notification and proof that they understand as well. Let's bring back the Hilltop of old and renew the sense of having a safe neighborhood. If you fight back and continue to fight back you CAN make a difference. |
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On September 8, 2009 said:
When contacting local residents and businesses, what steps are in place for the limited English speakers? And would assistance from professional interpreters assist in reaching those individuals? |
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