Building Bridges: Enhancing Community Engagement & Resource Sharing in the 19th District Captain's Meeting

Eager community members gathered at the 19th Police District, braving the ice and limited parking to attend this month's Captain's Meeting. Deputy Bologna made a special appearance, whose presence was warmly received and appreciated by attendees.

Captain Nuble took the podium, greeted everyone, and expressed gratitude for their ongoing dedication to our shared communities. He noted that crime statistics are trending positively, even though challenges remain.  

Crime is down 13% nationwide and is decreasing across the board in the 19th District. Homicides have decreased compared to this time last year, and shootings are down as well.  The area at 5200 Girard Avenue is a busy hub that poses multiple challenges, which are currently being addressed. A narcotics investigation on 54th Street resulted in the confiscation of seven firearms and various narcotics removed from the streets. 

Additionally, thefts from vehicles are down, and an auto theft ring operating near Joseph's University has been dismantled, with seven individuals arrested.

Before introducing the first guest speaker, Fire Prevention Officer Hartman, Captain Nuble reminded everyone that reserving parking spots is illegal.  He also noted that the PPD will no longer respond to car accidents, except in cases of injury, death, or if a driver fails to provide insurance information to the other party involved.  If you need a police report, please visit the local police district where the accident occurred.

Fire Prevention Officer Hartman continued the meeting by emphasizing the importance of checking your fire alarms monthly. During the cold winter months, the risk of house fires increases significantly due to poorly maintained heaters and unconventional heating methods such as space heaters and stoves. With recent spikes in house fires, Officer Hartman urges everyone to take action now and take full advantage of the FREE SMOKE DETECTOR PROGRAM. The city will install smoke detectors at no cost; simply call 311 to request yours. These detectors come equipped with long-lasting lithium batteries that can last up to 10 years, making them essential for keeping your home and loved ones safe. Don’t wait until it’s too late—protect your home today.

During the meeting, Captain Nuble invited speakers to share important information. Sergeant Dawn Thomas from the Neighborhood Services Unit discussed her work with the Mayor's Green and Clean Initiative, including overseeing abandoned car towing, investigating nuisance businesses, and addressing illegal dumping.  She urged residents to utilize the "311" service and addressed questions, especially those regarding abandoned cars, which are defined as vehicles with expired registration and inspection for at least 90 days parked on public streets.

Maribelen Carrasquillo has been appointed as the new Community Initiatives Specialist for the 19th District, focusing on addressing community blight. She collaborates with the "311" service and serves as an escalation point for reported issues. For assistance, email Maribelen.Carrasquillo@phila.gov.

Erica Gaines, Director of Community Empowerment at the Anti-Violence Partnership of Philadelphia (AVP), discussed support services for victims, including relocation assistance, lost wages, grief counseling, youth conflict resolution and much more.  AVP is dedicated to reducing violence through intervention, prevention, and support programs.  For more info, visit www.avpphila.org or call (215) 567-6776.

Rhemar Pouncey, a community organizer with long ties to the 19th, addressed concerns about the School District of Philadelphia's announcement to close Overbrook Elementary School.   As part of their School Facilities Master Plan, students would be reassigned to neighboring schools where violence and safety have been raised as issues.

Before closing out the meeting, Captain Nuble took the opportunity to acknowledge Community Relations Officer Shakira Ayers for her phenomenal work in organizing this year's Annual Black History Drill & Dance Competition, which was well-received and attended.

The 19th District Captain's Meeting occurs every third Monday of the month.  These meetings provide a vital platform for community engagement, resource sharing, and addressing stakeholder concerns.  We encourage you to mark your calendars and get involved.  We look forward to seeing you there!