Detroit Cops To Tackle Loitering Problem

DETROIT (WWJ) Under scrutiny for his department's use of so-called "stop and frisk" policing, Detroit Police Chief James Craig will soon meet with local business owners about the problem of loitering -- which he said can lead to carjackings and other crimes.

Carjackings are up 9 percent in the city of Detroit this year over last year, reports show.

"This is the one crime that really drives fear in this city," Craig said.

Craig added he's heard reports and seen aggressive narcotics dealings in parking lots and outside local businesses, and cracking down on loitering is the solution.

"Some of the (business) owners say 'Well, we can't do it alone, we can't help this.' Well, yes you can," Craig said.

In addition to reaching out to business owners, local residents are also being encouraged and given incentive to speak out when they see something that just doesn't seem right.

Terri Miller, executive director or Help Eliminate Auto Theft -- or HEAT, laid out the plan for Detroit residents.

"For a carjacking arrest you can earn a $2,000 reward, and if it's organized activity, you can earn $10,000," she said, about the rewards residents can earn for turning in suspicious activity. "We are here to partner with Detroit police and really help clean up the neighborhoods."