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Bing On Crime: We've Had Enough Of It

DETROIT (WWJ) - Detroit police are renewing their call for the community to help drive out criminals infesting their neighborhoods.

During a news conference with local, state, and federal authorities, Mayor Dave Bing said that citizens can join the battle, helping to reduce the number of crimes committed in the city.

"We've had enough of it. Please join us, help us to take out city back," said Bing. "Let's get into the streets. Let's make sure that, once again, the criminals that are out there know that somebody is watching them."

Police Chief Ralph Godbee said more citizens have been calling the tip line, Crime Stoppers, and anonymously reporting crimes, including homicides, which are up over last year.

According to Godbee, Detroit currently has 2,770 police officers on duty, with the current budget calling for 2,900. Last year, the city budgeted for 3,200 officers.

In the wake of a recent very violent weekend in Detroit, the chief announced that officers would be on the streets for longer shifts. Wednesday, without offering specifics, the Godbee indicated that most of those 12-hour shifts are gradually ending.

Speaking Wednesday, Godbee noted that most of the seven homicides that occurred that weekend have been solved.

"Five have been closed with arrests," said Godbee. "There's a sixth that we have a substantive lead on a suspect that we hope to close with an arrest, which leaves us with six of the seven closed ... or clear."

Meanwhile, the Detroit Police Department plans another gun buy back program. That date is set for October 30 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Second Ebenezer Baptist Church in Detroit. Also, police will offer a free VIN number etching during that one-day event.

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