September 24, 2007

* On Saturday, September 15, about 9:30 p.m., a resident in the 5600 block of Columbia observed from the balcony some guys kicking and beating up a young man. Two groups of teenagers approached the victim, one group coming from the Super Mercado Mexico, and the other coming from the neighborhood just northwest of where the beating was taking place. 911 was called twice but each time the caller got a recording and hung up in frustration. 15 minutes later a perturbed 911 operator called back saying that they had received several hang up calls from that number. By then, the victim, the attackers, and the vehicle had disappeared.

* The area near the 5600 block of Columbia has reported a substantial increase in gunfire recently. If you have any information, please call 911 or contact our Interactive Community Policeman, Keith Allen at 214-670-0659.

* The plant thieves struck again, stealing from a porch in the 5400 block of Victor. According to police, the stolen plants and porch ornaments frequently end up being sold at flea market malls and other venues.