Police, Neighbors Work Together To Curb Crime

The Peach Tree Hills neighborhood has had its share of problems: 40 foreclosures in 2 years and, on top of that, a recent rise in crime.

In November and December, there were 20 home break-ins.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Sgt. Steve Huber oversees the area and ramped up patrols after the uptick in crime. He said that led to several arrests, but break-ins were still happening.

So, CMPD started a new initiative, called the Peach Tree Hills Strategy Team.

Eight officers dedicate their time to the neighborhood, focusing on community needs and inviting residents to weigh in on problems.

Community members have responded well to the initiative, which Huber said has helped its success.

“In our last two community meetings, we have had 30 people,” he said. “In the past, we have had five or six.”

And now, officers said they are starting to see results of the combined effort to curb crime. In the last 46 days, there has been just one break-in.