Fueled by the outrage surrounding the Friday, July 23 gunpoint robbery of two women outside the Briarwood Condos in Woodhaven, local residents signed a petition to increase police presence in the community.
“We make up 25 percent of Woodhaven’s population on one block, we should be entitled to more police officers here,” said Nick Comaianni, vice president of the Forest Park Co-op on 98th Street. “When people cannot walk to their cars, that’s when the line is drawn.”
Signs were posted throughout the three-section apartment co-op by Comaianni and activist Jay Van Deven, asking residents to meet outside and sign a petition that would boost police patrols. At the end of the day, they wound up with 80 signatures – a feat Van Deven calls a “success” considering the rally was a last minute event. Some residents like Agnes Byrzak – who had to flee from someone who followed her home earlier this year – feel like taking action is way over due.
“When it’s dark, I don’t feel safe,” said Byrzak.
Little by little, more residents made their way down the block to sign the petition and express their irritation toward crimes like slashed tires, broken windows, robberies and assaults.
“I’ve had several windows broken; my husband had his entire dashboard stolen out of his car. For the first time in 13 years, I have an uneasy feeling,” said resident Marie Tabois, who would like to see more police and better lighting on the corners and streets around the co-op.
Assemblymember Mike Miller met with the 102nd Precinct on Monday, July 26 to discuss the incident and how it can be prevented in the future.
“I will continue to address this and other public safety concerns . . . Our goal here is simple. To make sure that this never happens again,” said Miller.
The two women robbed at gunpoint had their purses and car stolen. Neither was hurt. If you have any information regarding this crime, call the 102nd Precinct at 718-805-3215.
