The summer months can often lead to increased crime, but Mayor of Atlanta André Dickens and Atlanta police said not this summer.
Police say they’re turning up the heat with a new summer safety plan.
Berndt Petersen from Channel 2 was live along the Beltline on Ponce De Leon Avenue.
APD said they’re turning up the heat with a new ‘Operation Heat Wave’
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This summer, expect more patrols along the Beltline and in areas around the city considered more prone to violent crime.
Chyna Alexander and her friend Brie Ellis said summer evenings are sometimes spent at home.
“There’s always something happening. I don’t go anywhere, especially at night. Then everything really happens,” Alexander said.
APD says they get it, so they’ve launched Operation Heatwave, a major anti-crime blitz that officials say has a proven track record.
“We saw great success with this operation last year, with numerous drug and gun seizures and gang charges against violent repeat offenders,” said Mayor Andre Dickens.
Police will double in high-crime areas and residents will see many officers on foot, bicycles and horseback. The police will also act quickly in street races.
City
“If you’re thinking about street racing in Atlanta, think again. You are going to jail,” said APD Chief Darin Schierbaum.
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City officials said Heatwave 2023 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 help young people do safer things.
That’s the part that Alexander and Ellis like.
“I think that’s better. It helps 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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