Neighbors tell council of shootings, dogs and needles at 915 Ridge; police enforcement urged

Two Crown Point residents raised safety and nuisance concerns on June 2 about a property at 915 Ridge, telling the council of shootings, stabbings, loose dogs and animal attacks that they say have made the block unsafe.

John Hillamuff, who gave his address as 918 Southbridge, and Robert Bodner, who said he lives at 911 Southbridge, described ongoing problems at the house they identified as 915 Ridge. Bodner said neighbors had found needles in a yard and that dogs had attacked a neighbor’s cat; he said there have been a stabbing and other violent incidents. The speakers asked the council whether any plans are in place to address the property and urged action that would remove the owners while allowing the dogs to leave with them.

City response: the mayor and councilmembers told the speakers that enforcement of criminal or nuisance behavior would be handled by the police department. Council members said that discussions with the police chief had already taken place since the prior meeting and asked the residents to contact the chief directly. No formal council action or referral was recorded.

What the speakers asked for: immediate enforcement to stop the incidents and assistance so neighboring residents can feel safe. Council response: direction to pursue police enforcement and to meet with staff after the meeting to discuss next steps.

Outcome: no ordinance or administrative action was taken at the meeting; staff indicated the police department will be the enforcing authority.