A resident of Bedford Park recently complained that there have been several car break-ins taking place on East 205^th Street between Jerome Avenue and Paul Avenue, and shared some video footage with Norwood News of broken glass on the block as apparent evidence of the break-ins. He stressed that he, himself, was not directly affected but was concerned about the situation nonetheless.

 

Norwood News paid a visit to the area in the early hours of Tuesday, Nov. 12, and did not see any damaged cars or anyone hanging around the area on that occasion though it is poorly lit, there are dozens of cars to choose from, and the nearest building (Scott Towers) is quite a distance away.

A BEDFORD PARK resident shared a recently recorded video with Norwood News on Nov. 11, 2024 of East 205th Street between Paul Avenue and Jerome Avenue in Bedford Park of apparent broken glass on the block amid complaints of car break-ins in the area. He stressed that he, himself, was not directly affected but was concerned about the situation nonetheless. Video courtesy of Bedford Park resident.

We followed up with the 52^nd Precinct on the matter who confirmed there were indeed some reported car break-ins in the area, and that it is very quiet there during the night.

 

“Our units do patrol that area during the overnight hours mainly to prevent car break ins,” NYPD Community Affairs Officer Stephen Echevarria said. “Hopefully, people report the break ins, so we know when there is a spike in a certain area.” Norwood News did witness a patrol car on the block when we visited on the morning of Nov. 12.

The resident who shared the video with us later added in part he has since also spoken to the police about the issue, and as a result of that discussion also recommends that more residents report any car break ins when they occur, as apparently they have not been doing so. He said this should help justify having more police presence in the area.

 

“The belief is for a number of reasons that they have not called the police,” the resident said.