SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio police officers are reporting lower violent crime numbers one year after launching a focused crime reduction program at specific hotspots across the city.
One key location targeted was an apartment complex on Rigsby Avenue. According to police data, violent crime there dropped 50% and trespassing calls stopped entirely. Overall, the program led to a 22% decrease in violent crime across targeted hotspots, with a 6% decline in neighboring communities.
Sylvia Maciel, manager at the Rosemont at Highland Park Apartments in the 1300 block of Rigsby Avenue, said the program’s impact has been noticeable since they joined a year ago.
“Before, we had a lot of gang members, teenagers with guns, shootings day and night,” Maciel said. “Families were afraid to come outside. Once we started going at it full force, it made a big difference. People came out, kids played and community activities picked up.”
Resident Alma Zepeda said she noticed the change, as well.
“People used to fight and yell, but now, it’s calm,” Zepeda said.
Apartment management pledged to enforce lease rules strictly, evicting those sheltering criminals. They also invested thousands of dollars to install a privacy fence, add more lighting and trim bushes and trees for better visibility.
An SAPD San Antonio Fear Free Environment (SAFFE) officer regularly patrolled the complex, promptly reporting suspicious activity and trespassers to management.
Though crime hasn’t disappeared, Maciel acknowledged the data as part of an ongoing effort.
“Crime is everywhere,” Maciel said. “Some areas more than others.”
While the complex was recently sold to a new company, it remains to be seen if crime reductions will hold over in the long term.