Youngstown Police Department announces Community Safety Initiative in Downtown

The Youngstown Police Department (YPD) recently announced it has been awarded a grant from the Ohio Department of Public Safety, Office of Criminal Justice Services, to strengthen safety efforts in the city’s downtown district through its Community Safety Initiative.

The Community Safety Initiative launched with a meeting of local partners, business owners who will collaborate with YPD to proactively address potential contributors to criminal activity and quality-of-life concerns.

Initial work had already begun following an uptick of reports of juveniles congregating and creating an unsafe environment near the WRTA Bus Station and surrounding properties.

As a result, YPD partnered with the WRTA administration, Youngstown City Schools, Mahoning Valley Community School, and the Academy for Urban Scholars. As part of this effort, warning notifications to parents and/or guardians to help curtail potential disorderly behaviors and encourage accountability.

Additionally, a team of police officers will be assigned to the bus station area to help enforce laws related to compulsory attendance violations, criminal trespass and disorderly conduct infractions. Students may also be subject to additional school disciplinary action under the District’s Code of Excellence.

“The Youngstown Police Department will continue to partner with downtown business owners, residents, schools and partners, to identify concerns and implement effective strategies,” said Chief of Police Sharon Cole. “We remain committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all who rely on WRTA for transportation, as well residents, visitors, and businesses.”