North Columbus residents are taking action and formed a neighborhood watch group.
The group held a meeting Thursday at the Columbus-Lowndes Public Library and 60 residents discussed a number of topics such as “peddlers” hanging around streets, people knocking on doors and recent burglaries that affected some group members.
The focus shifted to Interim Columbus Police Chief Selvain McQueen when residents began asking about how to handle a string of burglaries in the area and people not from the neighborhood hanging around in the streets.
McQueen told residents to call 911 or police if they feel “uncomfortable,” and not worry about who it could be.
“They don’t have a reason to run off when we get there and question them if they have legitimate business,” he said.
Other residents said there have been instances of people knocking on their front doors during late-night hours.
Sarah Oswalt, who lived much of her life in Kansas City, Mo., said she never had as many problems in the metropolitan area that she has had since moving back to Columbus.
“I’ve never owned a gun, and I’m ready to buy a gun,” she said.
McQueen continued to urge residents to call 911 or police if they see something or are scared and not worry about retaliation because the 911 calls can be made anonymously.
“If you see something and you don’t call, shame on you,” he said.
John Beard, owner of Golden Triangle Security Alliance, attended and warned people, from his experience, that not answering the door if someone knocks could make the burglar believe no one is home, and the person will attempt to break in.
Kim Morgan said the most important point of the meeting was to get people to be active.
“I have three children,” she said. “I’m scared; they’re scared. If this meeting is for anything, it’s to call 911 and be active.”
Other issues discussed included adding stop signs, street lights, watch signs and even “no peddlers” signs, which City Attorney Jeff Turnage suggested.
“Columbus has an ordinance on peddlers,” he said, noting anyone with a yard tool who claims they have a lawn business must have a license.
Cindy Rood, the Northside Watch Group chairperson, suggested making a list of things to bring before the City Council and request. Rood said the group started in October 2010 but has doubled in size since.
“It’s just that we’ve had some instances recently that made people want to join,” she said.
McQueen applauded the residents’ efforts and said he “hopes this catches on throughout the city.
“I hope one day it becomes a city watch, not just a neighborhood watch,” he said.
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