Happy holidays to all Juniper Park Civic Association members!

We hope that everyone is staying safe during the holiday season. We would like to take this opportunity to talk about some recent events that have occurred in the 104th Precinct, specifically in Maspeth and Middle Village.

The 104th Precinct has experienced a 1.2% increase in major crime year to date, but there has been a notable 14.8% decrease in the last 28 days. When focusing on the Middle Village area, specifically, there has been an approximate 6.7% increase, with a significant portion of this rise attributed to property crimes, notably Grand Larceny Auto. Similarly, Maspeth has seen a 36% increase in Grand Larceny Auto crimes. We encourage you to continue sharing our crime prevention tips and to inform your neighbors about ongoing crime trends.

The Holiday Season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a time of increased risk for theft and burglary. Many people choose to travel or go away for extended periods during this time, leaving their homes vulnerable to break-ins. To protect your valuable belongings, we highly recommend storing them in safety deposit boxes before you leave. This will ensure that your items are safely tucked away and out of reach of potential intruders. In addition to storing high value items, it’s also a good idea to use timed lighting in your home. Leaving lights on timers can create the illusion that someone is home, deterring potential burglars from targeting your house. This simple yet effective trick can go a long way in keeping your home safe while you’re away. Lastly, it’s important to be selective about who you share your holiday travel plans with. Limiting the number of people who know about your absence can minimize the risk of your home being targeted by thieves who may be aware that the house is unoccupied. By keeping your plans under wraps, you can ensure that your home remains secure and your belongings protected.

There has been a concerning trend emerging in our precinct regarding vehicle thefts, with a notable increase in incidents involving Honda CRV, Honda Accord, and Acura TLX/MDX models.

As such, it is crucial for owners of these vehicles to take preventive measures to protect their property. One of the most effective ways to deter theft is by utilizing anti-theft systems such as Car Clubs, GPS tracking devices, and wheel locks. These devices serve as a visible deterrent to potential thieves and make it more difficult for them to steal your vehicle. By investing in these security measures, owners can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to theft. It is important for vehicle owners to be proactive in safeguarding their vehicles, as thefts can occur quickly and without warning. By taking steps to secure their vehicles, owners can provide themselves with peace of mind and protect their valuable assets. Remember, prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath of a theft, so do not hesitate to take action to protect your vehicle today.

The collaboration between law enforcement and the community is essential in achieving our shared objective of decreasing crime rates and enhancing public safety. We are grateful for the unwavering support shown by this community. We extend warm wishes for a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all. Should you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Community Affairs Office.

We’re in deep mourning over the loss of our very own, P.O. Christian Gonzalez.
We’ll always remember his bright smile, big belly laugh, & his willingness to help those in need.
Christian, your 104 family loves you. We’re broken without you. Rest easy kid; we’ll never forget you.