Police beefing up patrol in east Houston

(7/31/06 - KTRK/HOUSTON) (KTRK) -- Houston police say gang activity on the east end is up and more officers will soon be patrolling the streets.

HPD's east side patrol division stretches from the intersection of Wayside and Harrisburg southeast until it goes outside the Loop. It's a place where crimes, such as robbery, is on the rise.

Police in east Houston are looking to capitalize on the success of some of the other overtime programs that are in place in other parts of the city. Details of the plan are being worked out. Residents believe it's justified, no matter how much it costs.

Like so many other parts of the city, violent crime in Houston's east end is up. The difference here is a spike in the number of robberies in the first half of the year has police on alert and residents fearing for their safety.

"I'm concerned out here alone, a woman, nobody with me," said resident Charlene Brower. "Yeah, I'm concerned."

Here's the cause for concern -- using the exclusive Eyewitness News Crime Tracker, we've learned there were 127 reported robberies in the first half of 2005 compared to 182 during that same time period in 2006. That's a 43 percent increase.

Police have reason to believe gang members are the ones committing these crimes.

"We're in the initial stages of submitting the plan on targeting hot spot areas and getting officers in those areas to reduce crime," said HPD Assistant Chief John Trevino.

We've also learned most of the reported cases are robberies of individuals, usually taking place in the early morning hours. Police believe the suspects pick their victims at random, people usually walking by themselves. The increase comes as no surprise to east end residents.

"It's hard out there and a lot of people think about getting whatever they can get their hands on," said resident Jay Alemon.

There are still many uncertainties -- the number of officers dedicated to program and the number of overtime hours. The locals say the money and time will be well spent.

"It's very important to take care of the families, especially for the kids," said resident Joesphina Munoz. "I think to protect the kids is very important and the families."

Several of the civic associations in the east end have shared their concerns about crime with Councilwoman Carol Alvarado.
(Copyright © 2006, KTRK-TV)

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