SPRINGFIELD - Local officials yesterday announced the return of the Police Department's Street Crime Unit, saying it brings a welcomed, enhanced attack on gangs and drug activity.
Police Commissioner William J. Fitchet and Mayor Domenic J. Sarno jointly announced the re-establishment of the black-uniformed unit, which consists of 16 police officers who regularly patrol the streets, particularly in high crime areas and hot spots.
In addition, Fitchet announced an anti-gang hotline for residents to leave messages regarding tips on gangs and gang violence that may help police. The telephone hotline is (413) 787-7027.
Sarno said the hotline is created in memory of 19-year-old Mario L. Hornsby Jr., who was shot to death on Maynard Street on May 17 while standing outside with friends. Police have said they believe that the Central High School honors student was the unintended victim in a shooting that was related to a gang rivalry.
Fitchet said the gang problem in Springfield is closely linked to drug activity. The street crime unit will be working closely with state police and the federal agencies in rooting out the trouble and making arrests, he said.
"We feel this is the best way to combat the gun violence and the turf wars that take place among the gangs in the city of Springfield," Fitchet said.
Sarno and police officials said the unit was very successful and popular during a two-year span beginning in 2004, but became less visible under former Commissioner Edward A. Flynn.
Sarno said the return of the unit is a frontal attack on gangs and drugs, while also helping to prevent criminal activity.
"We are letting the criminals on the street, the thugs know, the street gangs and posses know, that we are going to hit back and we are going to hit back strong," Sarno said. "And we hope that sends a message not only to them, but it sends a message to the residents, business community and overall community that we are going to move the city forward to clean and safe streets."
The street unit is stationed in office space donated by R.J. Greeley Co. at the Springfield Technical Community College Technology Park.
Sgt. John M. Delaney, one of the two street unit supervisors, said the squad was embraced by the neighborhoods in the past, and now contains original and new members.
During its past efforts, the unit made close to 2,000 arrests, confiscated approximately $500,000 in drug money, and took 118 guns off the street in a two-year period, Delaney said.
Sarno said the initiative sends a strong message "that we are going to be on the attack now."
"And these street thugs are not going to take over our neighborhoods and run out the good residents of the city of Springfield," Sarno said.
Two of the officers of the re-established unit have police dogs that will assist in the crackdown on street crime.
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