Fear, Frustration Over Armed Robberies In Lake Highlands
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DALLAS (CBS11) - It was standing room only as residents in Lake Highlands packed into a special town hall organized by Dallas Police in response to the recent rash of armed robberies in the area.
Nearly 200 people filled the lunch hall at White Rock Elementary School to listen to police explain the plan to put an end to the potentially violent crimes.
"I'm still scared of my own shadow," said Liz Surles, who was robbed at gunpoint last Wednesday.
Surles was the sixth person in less than a month in Lake Highlands to be robbed at gunpoint while exercising outside.
Police arrested two sets of men officers believe are responsible for five of the crimes. The third set of men who attacked Surles remain free.
"They're still out there and they could easily be committing more crimes," said Liz Surles.
The frequency of the crimes is part of the reason DPD urgently put together the special meeting.
"It's very concerning because it's very unusual for this particular neighborhood," said Deputy Chief Andy Acord of the Dallas Police Department.
The crowd listened as Deputy Chief Acord told them prevention is as much on police officers as it is on residents.
DPD is urging residents to either hire an off-duty officer to help patrol the neighborhood or volunteer themselves through DPD's volunteer police-trained patrol unit.
"This is a perfect start. I think it's a great start. The community is involved," said Craig Surles, the victim's husband.
Craig Surles said he just hopes both police and his neighbors do what they are discussing so victims like his wife can soon walk or jog in peace.
"I should be able to stand out here in my neighborhood and feel safe," said Liz Surles.
Dallas Police is holding a second meeting for the residents who could not attend the meeting on Wednesday.
It will be Monday, August 17 at 7:00 p.m. at Lake Highlands Baptist Church.
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