Des Moines Police Department launched a new initiative in January , expanding its special investigations unit to address the issue and bring order back to the neighborhood. Members of the special investigations unit, street crime detectives, a code enforcement officer, patrol division, community officers and crisis responders are leading the initiative. Scott Oak with Des Moines police. John Takyi has seen a lot of change along the highway.
He has owned St. John Barbershop on that street for 10 years. He said he has lost customers because the increasing crime, violence, prostitution and homelessness has gotten out of hand. Man, I have to be very careful coming there.
Who wants to go to a place where maybe they can get in crossfire? Next to his business is the La Familia bar and restaurant where six people were shot in September after a fight broke out. Three people died. The restaurant is near the intersection of Pacific Highway South and Kent Des Moines Road—what police said was one of the most challenging parts of the city. So far, the patrol has made five arrests , recovered 11 stolen cars and issued 23 warnings. Oak said a very important part in doing this work is their community officers and crisis responders from the GPS Unit Getting People Services.
He said the department hired the members to do outreach with those who are experiencing homelessness. So far, the patrol has made 13 referrals to resources for people experiencing homelessness or a mental health condition. The GPS Unit is also going to small encampments along the highway asking people what their needs are and handing out fliers with information to verified resources. Business owners like Takyi said they are hopeful crime will reduce and safety will increase with the help of the emphasis patrol.
Have to leave. If it keeps on slowing things down, it will collapse the business," said Takyi. Takyi said he hopes the emphasis patrols can get the job done bringing order back to the highway. So, I applaud that. Download for Apple iOS or Android. Winter Storm Warning. Airport Weather Warning. Winter Storm Watch. Air Stagnation Advisory. Avalanche Bulletin. Des Moines police increase patrols on Pacific Highway South to address crime uptick Des Moines Police Department launched a new initiative in January , expanding its special investigations unit to address the issue and bring order back to the neighborhood.
