Crime is on the rise in the Richmond District, according to residents and business owners. Signs point to local economic desperation that incites the robbing of laundromat change machines and increased shoplifting from neighborhood businesses.
“A few weeks ago a young man came into my business and pointed his hands at me in the shape of a gun and said ‘bang,” said Sparkle Laundry’s owner, Linda Lee. “It was frightening even as a gesture.”
In response to community unrest, the Richmond District’s police department hosts a monthly meeting. The next one will be held on April 13, location to be announced.
“I’ve always had shoplifting, but now people are stealing things like shaving cream!” said Joe Massis, resident and 10-year owner of the Richmond Market. “That’s desperation!”
The meetings fall on the second Tuesday of every month.
According to Richmond police officer and meeting organizer Jill Connelly, it is uncertain what the topic will be about.
“The police meetings focus on safety mainly,” said Mila Diaz, the Richmond Community Coalition’s community convener. “They focus on what’s going on in the neighborhood that’s crime-related: robberies, auto thefts and home burglaries.”
“We address specific issues, like quality of life,” Diaz continued. “There are lots of homeless in the Richmond that come here because it’s safe. These are issues I want to address.”
The Richmond Community Coalition hosts a quarterly meeting in Supervisor Eric Mar’s office at City Hall. The next one is scheduled for April 16th at 8:30 am.
Despite the apparent growing number of crimes, residents seem unaware of the recurring community meetings.
“I didn’t realize that there were meetings at all,” said Richmond resident Vanessa Pena. “It’s good to know that this resource is available.”
“I didn’t realize that there were meetings at all,” said Richmond resident Vanessa Pena. “It’s good to know that this resource is available.”
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