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New Project Is Targeting Crime in Phoenix Neighborhoods

The Violence Impact Project (VIP) has recently been launched in Phoenix after local business owners complained about drug dealing and other criminal activity in the city. This special project involves several local departments, including the police and housing and neighborhood services. Together, these departments are attempting to cut crime and improve the neighborhoods around 27th Avenue, specifically the area from Indian School Road to Dunlap Avenue. J.D. Smith, owner of an apartment building in the area, was happy when an undesirable property next door was targeted first by the project. He stated that people would throw trash, including needles, over the wall and into his complex; they also stole from tenants. He stated that “we lost tenants over all this stuff, all the loudness and yelling…You know you’d come out early in the morning going to work and there’s a lot people looking at you, all crazy looking, all drugged up, and they didn’t want to live here for that.” Now, the city has forced the disruptive neighbors out and the property is up for sale. The city report indicates that VIP has three main strategies:

  • Address problem locations to reduce issues like homelessness, drug crimes, trespassing, panhandling and probation violation through increased prosecution
  • Eliminate street prostitution through stricter enforcement of prostitution laws
  • Address issues like graffiti, blight, slum lords, trash and animal abandonment

Crack Down Could Land More in Jail

If you live in Phoenix and have been accused of illegal activity, such as the sale or possession of drugs, you could face a greater risk of prosecution with VIP’s new initiative. What do you do if you are arrested for a crime? The criminal defense team at Oswalt Law Group is here to help those facing criminal charges in the Phoenix area. When you are facing criminal charges, it is important to understand that you only have one shot at a good defense. If you fail to exercise your rights and ask for your attorney, you could face much harsher penalties. The first thing you should do when you are charged is remain silent with the exception of asking for your attorney. The team at the Oswalt Law Group will help you build your defense as well as represent you when speaking with the authorities or in court. Because your future is on the line, it is imperative that you always call your criminal defense attorney at the Oswalt Law Group when accused of any criminal charges.

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