Police, PHA Taking Action To Keep Taft Homes Safe This Holiday
By: Alexandra Sutter
Updated: July 4, 2012
PEORIA -- Last year's July 4th festivities didn't go safely or smoothly at Taft homes.
Peoria Housing Authority President Brenda Coates said it was "chaotic" and "out of control."
This year, 22 police officers will be manning the property. Peoria Police are working with the PHA to keep a safe atmosphere for residents.
"Basically it is zero tolerance," said Coates. "There won't be any fireworks, no alcohol in public spaces and there will be signs posted to let individuals know police will be checking everyone against the PHA trespassing list."
Police are checking IDs for all people entering and exiting the property. If you aren't a resident or the guest of a resident, you can't go in.
Peoria Police Lieutenant Mike Eddlemon said the officers are working out of a vacant apartment and staying on the property as long as they need to.
Coates added that they still want residents to have a happy holiday, but they don't want a repeat of last year. "We certainly want residents to have a good time and enjoy the fireworks but police will be making sure that nothing gets started and if anything does it will be squashed by the police department."
Taft residents were given a written notice of what police expected from them. The PHA said the response was good and most residents are happy to see police stepping in.
