New crime prevention group starts in Greenfield

Greenfield business owners and police officers are coming together to form a new crime prevention group after a string of armed robberies in the business district.

“Back in the old days there wasn’t a lot of crime, but it’s different. There’s a lot of gangs in town now,” said business owner Eutiquio Chapa.

Chapa said his store has been robbed before but after four businesses were held up by masked suspects with guns last month, he said something more needs to be done.

“I’ve been here since 1954. The community has changed and when you get change, you get good and you get bad, and we some bad elements in town,” said Chapa.

On Wednesday, Greenfield police heldits first-ever Partners in Crime Prevention Meeting. Chief Adele Frese said there needs to be a mass communication system using text messages so business owners can alert each other about suspicious activity.

“Without the eyes and ears of the community, we just aren’t as effective,” said Frese.

Frese said surveillance cameras are crucial to make arrests and it’s important the department has quick access to the video. She said the best way to prevent crime is to work together.

“They are not alone as business owners. We are stressing the importance of sharing information and communicating on a regular basis,” said Frese.

Businesses owners like Chapa agree that this is a step in the right direction.

“I think the chief is doing good. I think this is a good start. If they are going to help the community do this, we as business people need to keep in communication with each other,” said Chapa.