In her report to the Brookline Block Watch, Sgt. Pat Kelly said March crime in Section 7, encompassing Brookline and Overbrook, consisted of three auto thefts, one burglary, one robbery, and 11 thefts. The burglary involved the break-in of a vacant house by youngsters who held a beer party there.
Of the 11 thefts, Kelly said at the April 7 meeting, four or five were from unlocked vehicles, while others were minor thefts from residences.
Officer Tom Weger, Zone 4 community problem-solving officer for Brookline and Overbrook, said he is checking on three illegally parked cars between Breining Street and Brookline Park. One has no license plate, one has an expired plate, and the check on the third car isn’t complete.
Owners will receive notice to bring the cars up to standard within a specified timeframe of about six to eight weeks, or the vehicles will be scheduled for towing. Officers will be informed of scheduled tows 48 hours in advance so they can check the vehicle’s status. If still noncompliant, the vehicle will be towed.
In response to a question about parking an Army transport vehicle in a driveway, Weger said it is allowed if the vehicle has a legal truck plate.
Block Watch President Mary Anne Miller said residents with complaints about abandoned cars, trash, police issues, or other concerns should attend block watch meetings to express them, or send complaints to: Brookline Block Watch, P.O. Box 9606, Pittsburgh, PA 15226. Block Watch officers will forward complaints to the appropriate city officials.
Miller said she asked Commander William Joyce months ago for monthly crime reports listing the streets where crimes occurred so local residents can be alerted. Joyce said he would check with Chief Robert McNeilly, but Miller said she hasn’t heard back. Kelly said she would look into it. Miller added she used to receive such reports until the staff member who compiled them passed away.
Miller also said she would soon be mailing a letter to city officials informing them that seven qualified volunteers are ready to help staff the Brookline mini-station, “which is supposed to open any day in the Mazza Pavilion.” Organizations citywide received letters from Assistant Police Chief Nathan Harper requesting help, such as answering phones and distributing information, at various mini-stations.
In response to a question about anti-war protesters Downtown stepping in front of vehicles, Weger said to let police handle the situation.
Officers have been present at every Downtown protest, Weger said, noting that as the war progresses, the protests are becoming more organized, more disciplined, and are attracting smaller crowds.
If damage is done to your vehicle by protesters, Officer Dawn Bowen advised being a good witness by remembering what the individuals are wearing and, if possible, asking for names. “Some will tell you who they are,” she said.
“Be the best witness you can be,” she added. “Flag one of us down if they do damage. We can get a report for you.”
In the treasurer’s report, Bill Feineigle reported a balance of $63.68, the same amount as last month. Cookies for the meeting were donated by the South Pittsburgh Development Corporation.
Miller announced upcoming locations for free community disaster training classes, developed in conjunction with the city, the police bureau, and the Red Cross. The next session will be Thursday, April 17, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the City EOC/911 Center at 31st and AVRR streets in the Strip District. Another class will be held in nearby Carrick at Concord Elementary School, 2350 Brownsville Road, on Thursday, April 24, also from 7 to 9 p.m. To register, call Elaine Caparelli at 412-244-4197.
The next meeting of the Brookline Area Community Council will be held April 28 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Mark’s Church on Brookline Boulevard. The topic will be street performing and community art, or busking, and will be presented by Eric Sloss. Local artists are encouraged to bring portfolios. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Rob Frank at 412-431-4828.
The next Block Watch meeting will take place on May 5 at 7 p.m. in the office of District Justice Charles McLaughlin, 736 Brookline Blvd.