Greetings to all the members of the Juniper Park Civic Association. We hope everyone is staying safe and would like to take this opportunity to update you on public safety matters within the 104th Precinct.

As of October 30, 2022, we have seen an increase in crime throughout the entire 104th Precinct, with an increase of 29% year-to-date compared to 2021. Middle Village has seen an increase of 19% this year and Maspeth has an increase of 45%. This overall increase is synonymous with many precincts throughout the city; the 104 Precinct crime increase is on par with the citywide average increase of 29% and falls below the Queens North Borough increase of 46%. We can assure you that we are and will continue to work diligently to ensure the safety of all members of the 104 Community.

Property crimes are the main drivers of crime in the Middle Village and Maspeth neighborhoods, as grand larcenies and burglaries account for majority of these crimes. We cannot stress enough the importance of removing your belongings from your vehicle when you park it. If a would-be thief sees a bag or other items in your car – it is an incentive for them to break into your vehicle. In the last edition of the Juniper Berry, I asserted our emphasis on quality of life enforcement and the confiscation of illegal dirt bikes, ATVs and mopeds. I am proud to report that we have confiscated over 250 of these illegal vehicles so far this year and lead Queens North in their seizure.

This past Halloween season our officers held our first annual 104th Precinct Haunted House. It was a huge success with over 400 participants and we look forward to hosting the event again next year.

Package theft has been on the rise the past few years due to the increase in online shopping during the holiday season in particular. To avoid becoming a victim of package theft, we recommend leaving specific delivery instructions for delivery services, having a caretaker or neighbor secure your delivered package when you are not home, and ensure your security cameras are in proper working order. Moreover, consider having your packages delivered to a nearby store ready for pick up at your leisure rather than allowing a delivered package to languish at your front door for an extended period. During the holidays, we like to remind everyone to change the batteries in smoke/carbon monoxide alarms, as well as security cameras.

We wish everyone a safe and healthy holiday season and a Happy New Year. We remind you to celebrate safely while you enjoy the festivities of the holidays. As always, please feel free to reach out with any concerns you may have, by calling the 104th Precinct Community Affairs 718-386-2431.