Memphis Residents Appeal for Additional Law Enforcement to Counter Downtown Crimes

Concerns over the safety and security in Downtown Memphis have led residents, united under the Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA), to call for an increased presence of law enforcement. Amidst a backdrop of hundreds of reported incidents ranging from thefts to burglaries and car break-ins from January through April, the association is taking action to bolster their community’s sense of security. This, against a canvas of neglected updates from the Memphis Public Safety Data Hub that has remained stagnant for the last few months.

As a response to the ongoing concerns, DNA President Jerred Price advocated for the community by sending a letter to Shelby County Sheriff Floyd Bonner. The DNA, through a recent Facebook post, revealed their Board of Directors made a unanimous decision, hoping to address the deficit of "safety and security" through supplemental patrols by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, according to a report by Action News 5.

In alignment with their mission to elevate protection during peak social hours, the DNA elaborated on their request for joining patrols during the weekends. Congressman running on fumes, Memphis Police Department's short staffing has reached over 500 officers, compelling the DNA to seek the Sheriff’s deputies' help. "The safety and security of Downtown Memphis during the evenings, particularly on Friday through Sunday evenings from the hours of 8:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m," which is when officers are often overtaxed, a statement obtained by FOX13 Memphis disclosed.

The initiative also extends beyond providing reinforcement to the police department but also aims to revitalize local commerce and assuage the fears of residents. "Our businesses are hurting. Our residents are worried. And that’s not the downtown we should accept as stakeholders. I am hopeful this letter and this partnership will prove to be a huge benefit for everyone," said Jerred Price, whereby outlining the broader implications of the pervading crimes on the community's well-being and economic stability. For many in the neighborhood, the partnership between the Sheriff’s Office and the Memphis Police Department represents a beacon of hope, articulated in a message shared by the Downtown Neighborhood Association on their Facebook page. Through such collaboration, the residents and business owners anticipate a downturn in criminal activity and a return to downtown Memphis conducive to growth and safety.