Safety in Raleigh’s nightlife district has become a pressing concern as Raleigh Police and business owners gathered to discuss strategies for combating crime along Glenwood Avenue. At a town hall-style meeting on Monday, Police Chief Estella Patterson addressed the growing worries and shared new crime data with attendees.
One of the key issues highlighted was the significant increase in illegal guns being seized by the Raleigh Police Department (RPD) in the area. Patterson revealed that the number of illegal firearms seized in the last quarter of 2023 had nearly tripled compared to the same period in 2022. In total, RPD reported confiscating 290 firearms in Glenwood South last year alone.
The rise in illicit firearms poses a serious threat to the community, as Chief Patterson warned, All we need is one incident to happen before it becomes a catastrophe. Lt. P.T. Morrison, responsible for overseeing patrols along Glenwood Avenue, further emphasized the prevalence of guns, stating that firearms were being found throughout the area, including in parking lots, during traffic stops, and encounters with volunteers.
During the discussion, potential solutions were put forward, such as bar owners investing in metal detectors and sharing security footage with RPD. However, there were concerns about the negative impact that metal detectors could have on customers. Tony Basford, owner of Plus Dueling Piano Bar, expressed his reservations, indicating that it might deter patrons from visiting establishments. Balancing security measures with maintaining a welcoming atmosphere was a challenge for business owners.
Another point of contention raised during the meeting was RPD’s decision to close Glenwood Avenue to vehicle traffic on Friday and Saturday nights. While some appreciated the increased police presence, others, like Adam Bennetts from Bigfoot Taphouse, argued that traffic was essential for promoting business and had seen a decline in the last quarter.
Larry Miller, who heads the Glenwood South Neighborhood Collaborative, which organized the debate, expressed optimism. He acknowledged the positive impact of RPD’s increased presence but emphasized the need for ongoing adjustments to ensure the benefit extended to all businesses in the area.
Ensuring the safety of Glenwood South remains a top priority for both law enforcement and business owners. As conversations continue and strategies are refined, the goal is to strike a balance between effective crime prevention measures and maintaining a vibrant and welcoming nightlife atmosphere.
The concerns raised during the meeting highlight the importance of collaboration between the police department, business owners, and the community to address the complex issue of safety in Raleigh’s nightlife district. By working together, it is hoped that Glenwood South can regain its reputation as a safe and thriving area for residents and visitors alike.
