City takes a bite out of crime in Wards Corner

August 15, 2011
316, 320, 324, 336, 340, 360 and 362 San Antonio Boulevard, highlighted in blue, are being purchased by the City of Norfolk

316, 320, 324, 336, 340, 360 and 362 San Antonio Boulevard, highlighted in blue, are being purchased by the City of Norfolk

In accordance with the 2004 Wards Corner Comprehensive plan, the City is purchasing property in Denby Park.

Below is the full press release:

NORFOLK – City Council members and the Wards Corner Task Force have partnered on the need to acquire properties within the Denby Park neighborhood, specifically the Texas Streets section.   The acquisition is part of the city’s plan to build safe, healthy neighborhoods that will sustain future generations.

Total units being acquired are 68 apartment units located in seven buildings and the grounds.   The parcels include 316, 320, 324, 336, 340, 360 and 362 San Antonio Boulevard.

The acquisition price is a total of $2,686.000.   The City Council appropriated in the past two fiscal years for this purchase and those funds were made available July 1.   Additionally, the city is seeking council permission to encumber an additional $30,000 ($15,000 for each Agreement) for any related closing costs bringing the total to $2,716.000.

Of the 68 apartment units, 16 are currently occupied.  The landlord has agreed to work with the tenants to provide them with equal or better apartments within different properties he currently owns.  All of the current leases expire no later than July 2012.

As apartments become vacant or are vacant upon the City taking possession, each unit will be boarded, secured and monitored.   Once the buildings are vacant, an environmental study will be conducted and the buildings demolished.

Pertinent quotes from a Virginian-Pilot article on the property purchase:

Councilman Andy Protogyrou made the redevelopment of Wards Corner the focus of his 2010 election campaign. Although his ward does not include Denby Park, he represents much of Wards Corner.

“This is something we’ve waited for years to happen in the Wards Corner area. It’s the beginning all of us have looked forward to,” he said.

“Marcus really deserves a lot of credit for making this happen. This shows we can make things happen when we have the political will.”

Crime in Denby Park has been a major factor in the deterioration of the Wards Corner commercial area, city leaders have said.

“Until we take care of the crime issue in Denby Park, we’re not going to make progress in the Wards Corner commercial corridor,” said Martin Thomas Jr., vice president of the Wards Corner Civic League. “So this sounds like really good news.”

5 Comments | blight, crime | Tagged: , , , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

Crime in the 300 blocks of E. Little Creek Road, Fort Worth Ave, and San Antonio Blvd

July 11, 2011

Much has been said about the crime (and/or perception of crime) emanating from the three criminal cancer infected blocks of 300 E. Little Creek Road, 300 Forth Worth Ave, and 300 San Antonio Blvd.

Below is the crime report for the 300 blocks from June 1, 2011 – July 9, 2011.

Crime description:	Location:	                Date/time:
LARCENY (ALL OTHERS)	300 BLOCK SAN ANTONIO BLVD	7/9/2011 11:00:00
LARCENY-PARTS FROM AUTO	300 BLOCK SAN ANTONIO BLVD	7/8/2011 6:00:00
ROBBERY-INDIVIDUAL	300 BLOCK FORT WORTH AV	        7/6/2011 21:50:00
NARCOTICS VIOLATIONS	300 BLOCK FORT WORTH AV	        6/30/2011 20:55:00
LARCENY (ALL OTHERS)	300 BLOCK SAN ANTONIO BLVD	6/29/2011 18:40:00
LARCENY-PARTS FROM AUTO	300 BLOCK SAN ANTONIO BLVD	6/29/2011 7:20:00
ROBBERY-INDIVIDUAL	300 BLOCK FORT WORTH AV	        6/26/2011 1:30:00
VANDALISM	        7800 BLOCK GALVESTON BLVD	6/25/2011 16:00:00
VANDALISM	        300 BLOCK SAN ANTONIO BLVD	6/22/2011 12:06:00
BURGLARY-RESIDENCE	7600 BLOCK GALVESTON BLVD	6/22/2011 7:30:00
VANDALISM	        300 BLOCK SAN ANTONIO BLVD	6/21/2011 14:00:00
VANDALISM	        7800 BLOCK DALLAS ST	        6/12/2011 11:00:00
VANDALISM	        300 BLOCK SAN ANTONIO BLVD	6/9/2011 20:00:00
LARCENY-PARTS FROM AUTO	300 BLOCK E LITTLE CREEK RD	6/7/2011 6:00:00
AGGRAVATED ASSAULT	300 BLOCK E LITTLE CREEK RD	6/6/2011 23:20:00
BURGLARY-RESIDENCE	300 BLOCK SAN ANTONIO BLVD	6/4/2011 22:00:00
VANDALISM	        300 BLOCK SAN ANTONIO BLVD	6/1/2011 5:00:00
Crime in the 300 blocks of E. Little Creek Road, Fort Worth Ave, and San Antonio Blvd

Crime in the 300 blocks of E. Little Creek Road, Fort Worth Ave, and San Antonio Blvd

Comments Off on Crime in the 300 blocks of E. Little Creek Road, Fort Worth Ave, and San Antonio Blvd | crime | Tagged: , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

Pilot Editorial focuses on Wards Corner

July 11, 2011

Again highlighting the City’s failure to adequately address the criminal cancer in Denby Park, the Virginian-Pilot printed an editorial in today’s paper stating, in part:

As it has been for years, though, the solution to Denby Park’s problems is not a playground. Or removing a playground. The solution is in a relentless attention to the problems of Wards Corner: a concentration of poverty, crime.

And that will take much more effort than moving a playground from one lot to another.

The following are the full comments sent to Pilot writer Harry Minium by Martin Thomas, Jr.

The Wards Corner area neighborhoods have been begging the City for years to do something about the criminal element in Denby Park.  The 2003 Wards Corner Comprehensive Plan called for the demolition of the
substandard housing in the 300 blocks of San Antonio Blvd, Fort Worth Ave, and E. Little Creek Road.  Not a single one of the approximately 47 buildings in those blocks has been demolished at this point.

We should not expect the citizens of Norfolk to have to raise their families in a neighborhood, which in those three blocks, is infected with a criminal cancer.

The park, almost immediately after construction, became a hangout for criminals.  I support the Denby Park/Monticello Village civic league in their request to move the park to a safer area where the families in those neighborhoods can enjoy the use the park without concern for their safety.

Pertinent quote from page 28 of the Greater Wards Corner Comprehensive Plan :

[T]he high-density walkup apartments constructed in the Texas Streets section of Denby Park are, for the most part, not desirable housing.  They have been built too close together, without appropriate provision of open space, and without amenities. The maze-like character of the resulting development, its proximity to highly-travelled Little Creek Road and to Interstate – 64 make it unfortunately suitable for drug dealing and for serving as a base for other criminal activity. The Norfolk police report that the situation in these buildings is getting worse. They recommend major change: the acquisition and demolition of these buildings, before the situation has even more adverse impacts on the surrounding neighborhoods.  The many respectable people who are living in these buildings are being victimized by the current situation.

1 Comment | The Greater Wards Corner Comprehensive Plan | Tagged: , , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

Denby Park’s KaBoom Park to be moved?

June 29, 2011

Citing continued crime at the KaBoom park, the City and the Denby Park Civic League are making moves to close the park and relocate it to a safer portion of Monticello village.

 

The park was built in August 2008 by over 400 volunteers and with a grant from the Chrysler Foundation.    It is located at 352 San Antonio Blvd.

As a reminder, page 28 of the 2003 Greater Wards Corner Comprehensive Plan:

[T]he high-density walkup apartments constructed in the Texas Streets section of Denby Park are, for the most part, not desirable housing.  They have been built too close together, without appropriate provision of open space, and without amenities. The maze-like character of the resulting development, its proximity to highly-travelled Little Creek Road and to Interstate – 64 make it unfortunately suitable for drug dealing and for serving as a base for other criminal activity. The Norfolk police report that the situation in these buildings is getting worse. They recommend major change: the acquisition and demolition of these buildings, before the situation has even more adverse impacts on the surrounding neighborhoods.  The many respectable people who are living in these buildings are being victimized by the current situation.

Comments Off on Denby Park’s KaBoom Park to be moved? | blight, crime | Tagged: , , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

Homicide at Cromwell House Apartments

June 16, 2011
Cromwell House Apartments

Cromwell House Apartments

Residents and neighbors of Cromwell House Apartments have been complaining about increasing and persistent crime for some time now.

WAVY, WTKR, and WVEC are reporting that a homicide occurred there on Tuesday night between 11:00 and 11:30pm.  The victim was an elderly man who rarely left his apartment according to neighbors.

Police have not released details or a motive at this time.

 

2 Comments | crime | Tagged: , , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

Report all suspicious activity

March 30, 2011

With the increase in reported robberies and burglaries in and around the Wards Corner area, please be reminded to report all suspicious activity to the police.  What is suspicious?  Below is an excerpt from the Norfolk Neighborhood Coordinators’ Manual, developed  by the Crime Prevention Division of the Norfolk Police Department.

WHAT IS SUSPICIOUS?
“Basically, anything that seems even slightly out of the ordinary . . . could be criminal activity.”
Examples (not a complete list):
  • ƒA stranger inspecting or entering your neighbor’s home while your neighbor is away.
  • Someone trying to open a neighbor’s door or window.
  • A moving truck or van pulled up to a  neighbor’s home while they are gone.
  • Remember, burglaries often occur at times when they should be most obvious (broad daylight, in full view of observers).
  • Someone carrying property such as televisions, stereos, etc., at an unusually late hour or in an unusual place, especially if it does not appear that the property is newly purchased.
  • The sound of shattering glass could signal a possible burglary, vandalism or larceny in progress.
  • Anyone peering into vehicles as they walk down the street or someone removing tags, gasoline or parts from a vehicle.
  • Someone attempting to enter a vehicle using a coat hanger or other device.
  • Never assume that it is the owner who has locked his keys in his car.  Be suspicious of anyone tampering with the hood or trunk of a car.
  • An improperly parked vehicle or abandoned  vehicle or someone leaving one vehicle and driving away in another may be signs of a stolen vehicle.
  • Anyone being forced into a vehicle could be a victim of possible abduction.
  • Persons loitering around schools, parks, and isolated areas or in the neighborhood.  These loiterers could be possible sex offenders or burglars.
  • Business transactions conducted from  vehicles, especially around schools, playgrounds or parks.
  • A steady flow of strangers to and from a particular house on a regular basis could indicate drug sales or a fencing operation (purchasing
  • of stolen goods).
  • Offers of goods or repair work at an unusually low price could indicate stolen property or some type of fraud.
  • All fights, screams and loud noises (such as explosions) should be reported.
  • Door-to-door solicitors without properly issued licenses and identification should be suspected.
“DON’T WAIT FOR SOMEONE ELSE  TO CALL.  CALL THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY TO REPORT IN PROGRESS SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY.”
Emergency:  911    Non-Emergency:  441-5610

10 Comments | crime | Tagged: , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

Robbery at Wards Corner business

March 24, 2011

The Virginian-Pilot is reporting that La Botica in the 7500 block of Virginian Drive was robbed today.

1 Comment | blight, crime | Tagged: , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

Police search for murder suspect that frequents Denby Park

December 1, 2010

In 2004, the Comprehensive Plan stated: ” The blighted high-density apartments that have become a high-crime area at the western end of the Texas Streets district in Denby Park are . . .  the highest priority location for a new initiative.”

Ali Ridley

Ali Ridley

According to WVEC:

Norfolk police are seeking assistance from the public in locating an individual wanted in connection with a murder that occurred in October of 2010.

On October 17, 8:45 P.M., police responded to the 3900 Blk E. Princess Anne Rd. in reference to an unconscious person. Officers located a gunshot victim that was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim was identified as Travis Taylor, age 19, 1500 Blk. Rush St.

Investigators have secured warrants for Murder and Use of a Firearm against Ali Ridley aka “Bull”, in connection with this death. Ridley is described as a black male, age18, 5’5″, 140 lbs., with short, natural black hair. He frequents Rush St., Peacan Point, Nicholson St., Denby Park and the surrounding areas.

Anyone with information on Ali Ridley’s whereabouts is asked to call the Norfolk Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.

Comments Off on Police search for murder suspect that frequents Denby Park | crime | Tagged: , , , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

Police looking for Denby Park resident, Mario “Rio” Fox, in connection with Timothy Drive shooting

November 29, 2010

 

Mario "Rio" Fox, image from WAVY.com

Mario "Rio" Fox, image from WAVY.com

Per the Virginian-Pilot:

 

City police are looking for a 26-year-old man in connection with a shooting Nov. 4 in the 500 block of Timothy Drive.

They have a pending warrant for the arrest of Mario “Rio” Fox on charges of robbery, armed burglary, aggravated assault and three counts of use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.

Fox is black, 6 feet 4 inches tall and 215 pounds, with long dreadlocks.   Police said he is often seen around his residence on San Antonio Boulevard, along with East Bayview Boulevard and Ben Moreell housing.   He should be considered armed and dangerous, police say.

Anyone with information about Fox is asked to call the Norfolk Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP (562-5887).

Comments Off on Police looking for Denby Park resident, Mario “Rio” Fox, in connection with Timothy Drive shooting | crime | Tagged: , , , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

Credit Union at Wards Corner robbed

August 20, 2010

The Virginian-Pilot is reporting that the Langley Federal Credit Union at 7420 Granby Street was robbed Friday, August 20, 2010 shortly after noon.

The man received an unknown amount of money and fled, Amos said. Shortly afterward, a dye pack with the money exploded.

The description of the man was vague. Police were looking at surveillance camera images to get a description of the man.

Anyone with information can call Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP (562-5887).

Comments Off on Credit Union at Wards Corner robbed | blight, crime | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

Nutty Buddy’s is closed

August 10, 2010
Nutty Buddy's is closed

The above sign is taped on the door of Nutty Buddy's

The problematic gay bar, Nutty Buddy’s, at Wards Corner has closed.

Nutty Buddy’s was detailed in an article, excerpts below:

The Nutty Buddy [sic] in Norfolk’s Ward’s Corner neighborhood has become a nightly source of criminal activity, which often spills-over into the streets of the working-class neighborhood.

The club is now a gathering spot for the area’s black transvestite community. Drag queen shows or ‘pageants’ are regularly held at the Nutty Buddy, drawing hundreds of drunken celebrants. Excessive noise, public urination, and fighting are commonplace when the club is open.

During 2008 alone, Norfolk Police records report no less than 50 assaults occurring within a one block radius of the club.

In addition to the usual rowdy behavior seen outside many bars, prostitution has become a major problem for the neighborhood. On any night, scantily-clad transvestite prostitutes can be seen waiting for their next date in front of the closed sub shop next door to the club. Often, they ply their trade in parked cars in the parking lot, and throughout the surrounding neighborhood.

6 Comments | blight | Tagged: , , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

Robbery suspect who shot at police in Monticello Village sentenced to 49 years

July 31, 2010
Jervod Simmons

Jervod Simmons

According to the Virginian-Pilot, Jervod Contae Simmons plead guilty to attempted capital murder in February and was sentenced on Friday to 49 years in prison for shooting at a police officer in Monticello Village.

[The police officer] spotted Simmons in the parking lot of an apartment building in the 500 block of Ashlawn Drive. Simmons ignored several orders to stop and get on the ground, according to the court record.

Simmons ran around a corner, stopped, and turned his weapon on [the police officer].

Simmons was captured that night in an apartment in the 500 block of East Little Creek Road.

See also:
Robbery suspect shoots at police in Monticello Village (September 28, 2009)
Jervod Contae Simmons charged with attempted murder (October 1, 2009)

Comments Off on Robbery suspect who shot at police in Monticello Village sentenced to 49 years | blight, Wards Corner Crime | Tagged: , , , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

AJ Lacy sentenced to 50 years for Denby Park murder

March 27, 2010
Alton Joe "A.J." Lacy

Alton Joe "A.J." Lacy

Alton Joe “AJ” Lacy was sentenced on Friday to 50 years in prison.   He received 20 years for second-degree murder, five years for the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and 25 years for probation violations.

Lacy, who is 30 years old, plead guilty in January to shooting Troy Booker on Fort Worth Avenue in the Denby Park neighborhood of Wards Corner.   The murder occurred on September 13, 2009.

This story was previously reported on by Wards Corner Now on September 13, 2009, September 18, 2009, and January 22, 2010.

Comments Off on AJ Lacy sentenced to 50 years for Denby Park murder | Wards Corner Crime | Tagged: , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

ICE busts fake ID ring running out of Wards Corner area

January 26, 2010

According to the Virginian-Pilot, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have investigated a fake ID ring at least partially being run out of  a house in the Wards Corner area.  Three suspects are being charged in relation to running the “document mill”.

They are alleged to have produced hundreds of bogus identifications, Social Security and green cards enabling illegal immigrants to live and work here.

1 Comment | blight, crime | Tagged: , , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

Denby Park murderer pleads guilty

January 22, 2010

Alton Joe “AJ” Lacy, pictured to the right, was first reported on by WardsCornerNow back on September 13, 2009 and September 18, 2009 when he was wanted for the murder of Troy A. Booker.

Booker, who was 22 years old, was murdered in the 300 block of Fort Worth Avenue in Denby Park.

The Virginian-Pilot now reports:

A dispute and threats among street cocaine dealers led to a September 2009 fatal shooting and a guilty plea to second-degree murder and a firearm charge Thursday in Circuit Court.

Alton Joe “AJ” Lacy Jr,, 30, admitted to shooting twice at Troy Booker, 22, on Fort Worth Avenue in Denby Park. Booker died at the scene; a bag containing crack cocaine was found on him, according to facts stipulated to in court.

Lacy told police he had been selling cocaine in the area and that, after threats and attacks on previous days, he believed it was “him or me,” according to the stipulation.

Sentencing was scheduled for March 26, according to online court records.

3 Comments | blight, crime, Virginian-Pilot, Wards Corner Crime | Tagged: , , , , , , , | Permalink
Posted by Wards Corner

« Previous Entries
Next Entries »