Crime in Harlem
Greater Harlem, in the northern section of the New York City borough of Manhattan, has historically had high poverty and crime rates.[1] Crime in Harlem is primarily related to illicit activities such as theft, robbery, drug trafficking and prostitution. Criminal organizations such as street gangs are responsible for a significant portion of crime, particularly violent crime. The leading cause of death among young black males in Harlem is homicide.[2] According to a survey published in 2013 by Union Settlement Association, residents of East Harlem perceive crime as their biggest single concern.[3] Greater Harlem has one of the highest violent crime rates in New York City despite significant declines from historic highs.
For crime in New York City in general, see Crime in New York City.Organized crime[edit]
There are many gangs in Harlem, often based in housing projects, such as 6 Net or 88 (Carver Houses); 1040 (Jefferson Houses); 20 Block (Wagner Houses); East Army (East River Houses); Broad Day Shooters (Washington Houses); Hilltop (Lexington Houses);True Money Gang (Johnson Houses); Air It Out (Taft Houses); and Whoadey (Lehman Houses). When one gang member is killed by another gang, revenge violence erupts, which can last for years.[14] The East Harlem Purple Gang of the 1970s, which operated in East Harlem and surroundings, was an Italian American group of hitmen and heroin dealers.[15]
Services[edit]
There are six subcommittees dealing with the key issues in greater Harlem. These are "crime and police, health and hospitals, housing and recreation, education, discrimination in employment, and discrimination in relief."[16] Harlem is patrolled by five precincts of the New York City Police Department.[17] Manhattanville and Hamilton Heights are covered by the 30th Precinct.[18] while East Harlem South is patrolled by the 25th Precinct.[19] Central Harlem North is covered by the 28th Precinct[20] while Central Harlem South is patrolled by the 32nd Precinct.[21] East Harlem North is covered by the 23rd Precinct[22] while East Harlem South is patrolled by the 25th Precinct.[19]
The Harlem Community Justice Center identifies problems and seeks solutions for a variety of crimes and disputes in East and Central Harlem. The multi-jurisdictional civil and family court offers programs in conflict resolution, financial support, at-risk youth, and re-entry for ex-offenders. Its goal is to work together with a community in order to facilitate neighborhood renewal.[23]
Y.U.N.G Harlem is a non-profit organization that advocates for the area's youth while also providing leadership resources. The organization's leaders were honored at Black Entertainment Television's 3rd annual "Black Girls Rock" awards.[24]