Dayton says new efforts stemming crime in neighborhood where women’s bodies found

Dayton police say stepped-up patrols have led to fewer gun crimes and more drug and prostitution arrests in the North Main Street corridor where residents have long complained of rampant crime and where several women have been found dead in yards and alleys since June.

Dayton police on Friday announced that on Dec. 4, 2017 the West Patrol Operations Division assigned two patrol officers to focus their efforts along the North Main corridor.

RELATED: The deaths of five women in Dayton linked by drugs, possible foul play

“The officers work closely with other bureaus within the police department, along with neighborhood leaders and residents, to pursue crime reduction and improved public safety,” says a release from the city. “These officers have attended numerous neighborhood association meetings and forged relationships with thirteen area businesses.”

This initiative has led to a 5 percent decrease in gun crimes such as homicide, rape, robbery and aggravated assaults compared to the same period in 2017, the city says.

They have also increased arrests for drugs, prostitution, weapons and traffic citations. This includes serving eight search warrants and conducting seven underage sale of tobacco investigations along the corridor.

Residents called for months for increased attention to crime problems plaguing North Main.

RELATED: Dayton residents fed up with North Main Street crime seek help

RELATED: ‘I’ve had to learn how to use a gun:’ North Main Street business owners upset with crime

North Main's problems were put in the spotlight last month when the Dayton Daily News featured the unsolved deaths of five women in the area and residents' efforts to reclaim the neighborhood.

Anyone who witnesses any criminal or suspicious activity in the North Main area is asked to call 333-COPS to report it. To remain anonymous, call Miami Valley Crime Stoppers at 937-222-STOP.

More from this project:

Two drug deaths from one family. Says mom: ‘It was like living in hell’

PHOTOS: 5 women’s bodies found in Dayton as city struggles for answers

Neighborhoods where 5 women found plagued by blight, vacant homes

About the Author