The Washington Post reports on a blog post by District, Measured (the blog of DC’s Chief Financial Officer) highlighting an increase in crimes committed with guns in certain neighborhoods, including ours (grouped with Fort Totten and Queens Chapel). From January through July 2014, there were 13 crimes committed with guns.  For the same time period in 2015, there were 30 crimes committed with guns. Nearby North Michigan Park (grouped with Michigan Park and University Heights) also saw an increase from 11 to 19.  These numbers are still on the low end relative to other parts of the city, but still disconcerting.

There have been a number of public safety meetings by elected and police officials this year. At a couple of community meetings following shootings in the neighborhood, the police have been a bit tight-lipped, stating they know that some of the shootings are a result of beef between crews in the neighborhood in which the victims and perpetrators are known to each other. Other instances though involve random acts of violence. Some of the crime has been brazen, occurring during daylight hours or in well-lit areas at dusk. Some residents have noted that it would be useful if the police got out of their cars and patrolled on foot or bike. Others have indicated that young people need things to do and people generally need jobs so that they do not resort to crime.

I would like to think the police have a handle on what is driving the increase. In the meantime, we will just have to heed their usual advice of being aware of our surroundings, watching out for our neighbors, and immediately calling 911 about legitimately suspicious behavior.