Submitted by Christine Whelan

Nov 25, 2021, VOL. 3 ISSUE 7

As some people in the Greater Fort Erie area are becoming increasingly fed up, Jack Fava has stepped up in response to the recent incidents of criminal activity weaving through the town’s streets.  First on Facebook, then to the Fort Erie Observer.

Originally from the Toronto area, now living in Ridgeway, Fava’s been recently following many comments on local Facebook groups, such as Fort Erie Community Watch, and has interacted with many.

“Before posting on social media, I was trying to connect with local officials, but I didn’t hear back. So, I sent it to you,” referring to the email he then sent to Jen Wilkinson, Publisher of the Fort Erie Observer, “because people are getting fed up.”

According to Fava, “There are three pieces. There’s the crime, the police, and the politicians. And that’s what I’m trying to connect, “

Fava shared his background. “When I was in Toronto, I was with the CPLC, the Community Police Liaison Committee. It’s a partnership between, community volunteers and police service representatives, talking about crime and fundraising. I did this for years.”

“It’s the responsibility of our citizens, police, and politicians to keep the community safe.” He commented to the frustrated residents of Fort Erie on social media. “I’ve been telling people, to give their videos,” referring to videos such as those taken from porch and door cams, ” give them to the police and politicians. Let them know. “

Fava is focused on making the police and politicians aware. If they don’t know what’s going on, they can’t do anything about it.

We talked a bit about the different types of criminal activity that have taken place over the last while in the area, starting with the double murder along the Niagara Boulevard, the murmur of trafficking in the region, vehicle, home, and business break-ins, along with package rip-offs, with boldness and no masks, regardless of cameras present.

Desperation.

“COVIDhasn’t helped. More people are desperate these days.” In addition, the crime rate goes up each year before Christmas.

“It’s a lot of property crime,” Jack commented about all the break-ins of homes, vehicles, garages, and the effects they have on residents. “It’s personal.  It’s a violation of your rights, your space.”

Fava was also with Victims Services with the Toronto Police on a volunteer basis. “I have heard so many stories. People can’t shake it off. Years later, they can tell their stories of being robbed in detail. They don’t forget it”

Why It’s Important To Report: “Make them aware.”

Fava says people don’t always like to call the police. “A lot of people don’t report when something happens in their yard, to their property, but I’m telling you, it’s important that they do. Police keep track of the high crime areas and will keep an eye on them. Unless people report, they won’t know.”

Fava is calling on Fort Erie residents to do their part and make it known to law enforcement and politicians what’s going on in their neighbourhoods.

Starting a Committee?

Jack continued verbalizing some of his interactions with local Facebook groups. “Someone said, ‘Why don’t we start a committee? There’s power in numbers.’ I told them I’d look into it.”

We focused our conversation on this consideration. He commented, “I think it would be important if we could start a group. We might get more attention and get recognized as a group with a name.”

This brought Jack to the message he is trying to make at this time. “It’s about getting people involved, empowering the community, and getting politicians, as well, onboard.”

He continued to paint a picture. “It would involve meetings, a place to vent and decide how to take action.” We talked about the different topics that could be discussed such as safety.

Need to be vigilant.

“We all have to learn how to take care of our neighbours. I think it’s one of the most powerful things, getting people together and asking, how can we help our neighbours.”

He talked about the importance of each resident knowing where the vulnerable neighbours are and keeping an eye on them.

Referring back to comments on Facebook, Jack mentioned, “People are eager to get involved. When people post about taking action on their own, I comment that the end result is not worth it. I say, call the police and do it right.” He added that calling in may not get immediate results, but it will be put on file, which could be essential ammunition in the future.

Fava is hoping to start a community group in the spring or summer. Not just about the crime issue.  He mentioned it could present good opportunities for fundraising for the community.

A FEW SAFETY TIPS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

OPP told Global News, “A person’s garbage can be a criminal’s treasure.” Police have been reminding residents over the years to be mindful when taking holiday litter to the curb. Anyone who is looking for a target, can just drive by on garbage day and check out the gift boxes.

• To prevent incidents, police recommend residents cut down large boxes and turn them inside out when recycling.
• Shredding receipts and financial documents before they hit the garbage can is another suggestion.
• It is also recommended to avoid posting new gifts on social media.

Also please remember

-never post your vacation plans on social media

-Be sure to keep cars locked and never leave gifts and valuables on seats where they can be easily seen.

-Keep your home well lit

– Let trusted neighbors know if you are going to be away and ask them to remove packages or flyers that may be dropped off