Safe Streets Under Siege: Perry Hall CBD Shop Break-In Sparks Community Concern

The Rise of Juvenile Crime in Perry Hall

Breaking Point: The Recent Break-in at Live Rite CBD Shop

Tuesday night seemed like a normal night for the Live Rite CBD shop, that was until someone threw a piece of concrete right through the front door. Surveillance camera footage showed what appeared to be three people running away from the store. Robert Windsor, the owner of the shop, says his manager got the alert on his phone. “He had some concerns because people were walking by the store that seemed a little off and then as soon as he sat down and ordered dinner, his phone went off and that’s when the alarm went off and someone had broken the window,” says Windsor.

This isn’t the first time something like this has happened. Maurice Christensen, owner of Hammer Home Improvement next door, says teens have been increasingly committing small crimes in the area. “The neighbors next door to us, they broke in about, I’ll say a month or two ago busted out his window,” says Christensen. He says he even caught a group of teen boys in action before as they tried to set a fire behind his business. “It’s really concerning and unsafe because you don’t know what you’re going to walk out the door to get. You know these guys are breaking windows now but you know what are they going to do next before they start robbing people,” says Christensen.

A Pattern of Small Crimes: Maurice Christensen’s Concerns

Christensen describes the escalating nature of the crimes, highlighting the growing threat to the safety and security of the Perry Hall community. He expresses his concern that these seemingly minor offenses are a prelude to more serious crimes, potentially escalating to robbery or even violence.

The impact on local businesses and communities is analyzed, emphasizing the financial burden of repairs, security upgrades, and the psychological toll on business owners and residents.

The Broader Implications: Juvenile Crime and Accountability

Windsor says he is hurt by what happened but also worried there won’t be any justice. “It’s also concerning that these are juveniles that are committing these crimes and the state is not holding juveniles accountable right now and this is what we’re getting,” he says.

Windsor has lived in Perry Hall his whole life, and he says the increase in juvenile crime has only been a factor in recent years. “I used to ride my skateboard as a kid through these communities and to see the destruction and what’s happening now with local businesses and even people living in the community it is becoming very concerning,” he says.

The Human Impact: Business Owners’ Experiences and Concerns

Personal Stories of Impact: Robert Windsor and Maurice Christensen

Windsor now has to replace the glass in the door and is planning to increase the number of security cameras outside of his business as well, which he says could cost him around $1,500. After what happened, the men are encouraging other shops to make sure their businesses are secure.

Christensen’s account reveals the emotional toll of witnessing these escalating incidents, the uncertainty it breeds, and the constant fear for the safety of himself, his employees, and his property.

A Community in Crisis: The Effects on Local Businesses and Residents

The ripple effect of juvenile crime on the local economy is analyzed, highlighting the potential for lost revenue, increased insurance costs, and the closure of businesses unable to withstand the financial strain.

The impact on community morale and trust is explored, emphasizing the sense of vulnerability and insecurity that pervades when residents and business owners feel unsafe in their own neighborhoods.

Practical Solutions: Securing Businesses and Communities

Strategies for Business Owners to Enhance Security Measures

Morningpicker offers actionable advice for business owners to bolster their security, including:

• Investing in robust surveillance systems with high-resolution cameras and motion detection capabilities.
• Implementing secure access control measures, such as keycard entry or biometric scanners, to restrict unauthorized access to premises.
• Fortifying physical barriers, such as installing reinforced doors and windows, to deter potential intruders.
• Establishing strong relationships with local law enforcement agencies and participating in neighborhood watch programs to enhance community vigilance.

Community-Led Initiatives to Prevent Juvenile Crime

Morningpicker highlights the importance of community involvement in addressing the root causes of juvenile crime, suggesting:

• Creating mentorship programs to provide guidance and support to at-risk youth.
• Organizing youth outreach initiatives to engage young people in positive activities and provide them with opportunities for personal development.
• Establishing community centers and recreational facilities that offer safe and constructive spaces for young people to gather and interact.

Collaboration Between Authorities and Community Members

Morningpicker emphasizes the need for a multi-faceted approach that involves collaboration between law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and residents to effectively address juvenile crime.

The Path Forward: Addressing Juvenile Crime in Perry Hall

Calling for Action: Encouraging Community Engagement

Morningpicker underscores the responsibility of all Perry Hall residents to actively participate in creating a safer and more secure community.

Ideas for community involvement include:

• Attending community meetings and forums to voice concerns and share ideas.
• Volunteering with local organizations that work with youth.
• Reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement authorities.

Policy Changes: Advocating for Reform in Juvenile Justice

Morningpicker calls for a comprehensive review of Maryland’s juvenile justice system, advocating for reforms that address the root causes of juvenile crime.

Potential policy changes include:

• Expanding access to mental health and substance abuse treatment programs for at-risk youth.
• Investing in early intervention programs to identify and support children who are at risk of engaging in criminal activity.
• Implementing evidence-based practices in juvenile courts that focus on rehabilitation and reintegration into society.