The summer months can often lead to more crime, but Atlanta’s mayor Andrew Dickens and Atlanta police said not this summer.
Police say they are raising the temperature with a new safety plan for the summer.
Berndt Petersen from Channel 2 was live along the Beltline on Ponce De Leon Avenue.
APD Said It’s Turning Up the Temperature with a New ‘Operation Heat Wave’
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This summer, you can expect to see more patrols along the beltway and in areas around the city that are considered more prone to violent crime.
Chyna Alexander and her friend Brie Ellis said that sometimes summer nights are spent at home.
“There’s always something going on. I don’t go anywhere, especially at night. That’s when it all really happens,” Alexander said.
APD says it understood, so it launched Operation Heatwave, a massive anti-crime campaign that authorities say has a proven track record.
“We had a lot of success with this operation last year, with numerous drug and gun seizures and gang charges against repeat violent offenders,” said Mayor Andre Dickens.
Police will double down on high-crime areas and residents will see many officers on foot, bikes and horses. Police will also respond quickly to street races.
City
“If you’re thinking about street racing in Atlanta, think again. You’re going to jail,” said APD Chief Darin Schierbaum.
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City officials said the 2023 heat wave has led to fewer shootings and robberies.
The 2024 version will also include the city’s new ‘Care’ unit to respond to non-violent calls, freeing up even more armed officers to tackle serious incidents. And there will be many more summer camps, basketball leagues and more to give young people safer things to do.
That’s the part Alexander and Ellis like.
“I think it’s better. It’s helping the community. I think it’s a good idea,” said Ellis, a student.
And police said the Beltline is one of those areas where you can expect to see more officers this summer.
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