Dallas (WBAP/KLIF News) – Crime has been on the rise in Deep Ellum in the last few weeks. There were three violent armed robberies in August and a woman was sexually assaulted on September 18th.
The Deep Ellum Foundation’s Jessica Burnham said crime in the popular East Dallas neighborhood has always ebbed and flowed. She said the common denominator is the neighborhood’s resilience.
“I know that the past was really hard. It all kind of hit us pretty quickly at once but everyone has been coming together very strongly and passionately to work together and I don’t think it’s going to put us down at all,” said Burnham.
She said the crime wave has not affected local businesses in a negative way nor has the recent construction. Burnham said with the exception of construction on Malcom X Boulevard and Main Street, the work areas are contained. The construction has affected where some patrons are walking, so the foundation took a proactive approach.
“We have been urging all of our property owners to have really great lighting, locks and security cameras in place. One of the construction companies said they’ll have overnight surveillance and they’re increasing their security for the weekend as well,” said Burnham.
Patrons will also see more Dallas police officers on foot patrol in the area. Burnham said the recent spike in crime has actually made business owners, residents and patrons more alert.
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