Seventy-three additional police officers are now patrolling the streets of the 46th, 48th and 52nd precincts in the Bronx – areas that saw the highest number of shootings and murders in the borough.
“We saw the rate of homicides, murders double last year. That was alarming," said Councilmember Oswald Feliz.
Feliz wrote to then interim Police Commissioner Thomas Donlon in October asking for help. Commissioner Jessica Tisch responded to the letter in March saying that the 73 officers were added.
“I did feel a little bit unsafe being here, but with a little bit more police, I do feel more safe walking the area," said Luca Dilvva, a Fordham Student.
The additional officers have improved crime stats in both the 46th and 52nd precincts. Both have seen a decrease in shootings and murders this year compared to last.
The 48th Precinct, which covers Belmont, East Tremont and West Farms, has seen an increase in murders. Neighbors told News 12 they aren't surprised by these findings.
“There’s more police but it don’t change nothing, I still feel the same, I don’t feel like they’re doing too much," said Keke, from Belmont.