Blackwood faces rising crime. A local official compares it to the Bronx, citing violence, murder, and anti-social behavior.
Recently, Blackwood has seen more problems. Anti-social behavior and violence rose a lot. Youths mainly commit these acts.
Young men brawled on the high street. They had blades and crossbows. Police arrested eight people that day. They suspected violent disorder. A man was found dead in a house the same week. Neighbors reported a disturbance to police. Police are investigating the death as murder.
Criminal damage happens often there. The bus station is a problem spot. Police often order people to leave, which helps control the area. Locals told the Argus about their fears. Elderly people avoid the town center now, especially the high street.
Teens intimidate elderly people. The elderly feel unsafe at the bus station. They avoid the town in the evenings, and weekends are also a concern. These incidents don’t seem linked. But, a clear issue faces the town, “mindless” violence is right at the heart of it.
The deputy mayor spoke about Blackwood. He said it’s “worse than the Bronx,” telling this to the police during a meeting. The Bronx was once a violent area, a borough in New York City. Police and the council have already met and talked about the violence problems. They will meet again soon after a mass brawl, this meeting occurring after the February 13th brawl.
A police superintendent spoke out and said they won’t tolerate violence. He is proud to work with the community and wants to keep the area safe. Police revealed their plans back in January to deal with trouble in the town. This trouble is mainly anti-social behavior cases.
A police chief inspector also spoke, saying officers work with partners to tackle bad behavior. The bus station is patrolled daily because it is known for these issues. She asked parents to think about their kids. Where do they go? Are they involved in the trouble? Parents should talk with their children, she urged. Actions impact people negatively, and offenses could ruin their futures, stopping them from getting a job, traveling, or getting a car.