Pubdate: Wed, 17 Sep 2003
Source: Daily Press (VA)
Copyright: 2003 The Daily Press
Contact:  http://www.dailypress.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/585
Author: L. L. Adams

OPEN DRUG DEALING

For several weeks, I have witnessed in my neighborhood drug dealing
from a certain house. They are so blatantly open about their operation
that I am amazed that it is continuing.

I contacted the police department and spoke to a special investigator
and was told that anytime I saw a "transaction" to contact them, which
I have done numerous times. One day I called at least three times.
Each time I call the police department, I speak to whoever answers the
phone. I have to retell my problem each time and they say they will
send someone to patrol the street. Very seldom have I ever seen a
police car on this street. Meanwhile the business continues, either in
the back yard, the front yard, in the middle of the street, wherever
is convenient.

Recently I saw someone receive a speeding ticket on an adjoining
street. Because of citizens' complaints, a patrol car was parked to
catch speeders. I am aware that speeding is a hazard, but why ignore
the drug dealing that has been going on in the same neighborhood for
weeks? All it would take is for one officer to watch this particular
house for one day. This is why families are moving out of Hampton and
to other localities where their police department is better manned and
funded.

I do not blame the police department wholly, because as I understand,
there is a shortage of officers. Can anyone give me an answer of what
can be done to rid our neighborhood of this trash?

L. L. Adams

Hampton
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake