Question of the Day: Private Security?
On the same day last week, we heard in the morning from a policeman that the 88th Precinct (Fort Greene and Clinton Hill) had finally gotten a boost in manpower and in the afternoon that our neighbor across the street had been robbed the night before. We’re wondering what people think about the idea of…
On the same day last week, we heard in the morning from a policeman that the 88th Precinct (Fort Greene and Clinton Hill) had finally gotten a boost in manpower and in the afternoon that our neighbor across the street had been robbed the night before. We’re wondering what people think about the idea of supplementing the local police force with some private security. Our GC told us he thinks the local “bad guys” won’t be put off by rent-a-cops. Other people have said that bringing in private security would only antagonize relations between gentrifiers and old-timers. We’re sure other people’s response will be “If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.” But if you’ve already committed to being in a neighborhood, should political correctness stop you from doing everything you can to ensure the safety of your family? Is passing the hat to your neighbors to raise money for a night-time patrol realistic?
A dog? Ughhh. Shedding, barking, generally berserk behaviour. No thanks. My stress levels would go up exponentially.
Community patrols work when you have a lot of homeowners who live in the neighborhood. If you live in an area of mostly renters, the absentee landlords and renters probably won’t pay or care about private security or a neighborhood watch, as the situation seems short-term to both.
I’m not too afraid to pick up the phone and call 311. I’ve done it and I speak from experience.
I believe $10 a hour rent a cops wouldn’t mind get a cut of the stolen loot, and I can see them as lookouts as previously mentioned.
I would recommend getting a dog. Ft. Greene park has the most dog friendly park around NYC, get a dog and the crime will stop. Added bonus, your stress levels go down and your quality of life will increase. Trust me.
3. do those of you who live in CH and FG talk to your black neighbors, or do you keep to yourselves?
Some of us ARE the black neighbors.
but to your point, a little neighborly friendliness does go a long way. In black culture we are taught to “speak” at a very young age. It is extremely disrespectful not to greet the people you encounter on a daily basis. I’ve noticed that a lot of white people don’t necessarily understand this concept. Not saying hi to your neighbors and others you may pass on the street is considered rude.
anonynmous 2:30 re retaliation,
if you are too afraid to pick up the phone and call the police in you’re own neighborhood the battle is already lost…
David,
“Who cares if people resent it?…”
I’m assuming Brownstoner does, at least a little, or he wouldn’t have asked. I’m not saying he should care. More practically, one reason is that having good, tight relations with neighbors — having neighbors who talk to you, keep you up on the news, keep an eye out on your house, etc., etc. — is itself a security benefit. Not to mention part of quality of life.
You yourself said you doubt whether these patrols work well. So it’s at least possible that Brownstoner might be giving up more in the security of a cohesive neighborhood than he would be gaining.
Anyway, I have no PC axe to grind here, just thought Ditmas’ experience would be relevant to Brownstoner. Relax.
#6 – Buy a shotgun.
brownstoner’s block may already have a block association