SEATTLE — On Friday, the area around 12th Avenue South and South Jackson Street in the Chinatown-International District finally saw some help as police set up a mobile police precinct.
The area has long attracted criminals and many businesses and residents had begged for a greater police presence.
The area has seen numerous shootings.
Business owners said dangerous drug deals have gone down and stolen goods are sold in the area.
However, with more of a police presence Friday, residents noticed a difference, which is good news to them.
“I’ve always felt safe in this city, I could walk anywhere, anytime of night, (but) now I won’t leave my house after six o’clock,” said Tom Burns, who has lived in the area since 1946. “They moved a block west instead of in front of that grocery store. I feel sorry for the guy who runs that grocery store, for the last two or three years. I can’t imagine what he’s gone through.”
Now the question remains: How long will things last? Could trouble return if police reduce their presence?
The Seattle Police Department has not said what its overall plan is, except that officers will continue to monitor the area for as long as it is necessary.