Northpark Apartments in Joplin certified - KOAM TV 7

Northpark Apartments in Joplin certified in new Crime Free Multi Housing program

The Northpark Apartments in Joplin is the first certified property in the Joplin Police Department's Crime Free Multi Housing Program.

"The crime has dropped, it used to be really bad," says Linda Fosdick, a tenant at Northpark Apartments.  "It was almost like an every weekend thing.  They were out here all the time."

Police calls to the Northpark Apartments are down 33% since Northpark Apartment management began working toward the Crime Free Housing status.

"The open communication with the police department - knowing any time I need something," says Jenifer Hayward, Northpark Apartment property manager.  "That communication has been fantastic for me and for the residents as well."

"Every week they get a copy of any report that was taken from out here, any police call taken out here on this property, they will receive a copy of that," says Corporal Brian Henderson of the Joplin Police Department.

Earning the certification was a three phase process.  Management and maintenance went through training on how to spot crime like illegal drugs.  Police conduct a property security inspection and then the complex throws a party for the apartment community.

"I think it's a good thing, part of it is people taking pride in their community," says Hayward.  "They're out here more often.  They're out walking their kids or dogs.  I think people are out here, they take an interest, it always is safer because there's people out here.  Police presence has had an impact, a real plus."

A number of security improvements have been made over the past year.  Tenants say they've noticed a difference and have a sense of security.

"They've really improved," says tenant Rick Hogan.  "They've got a lot more security lighting going on here and it's a lot lighter and brighter.  That's always a deterrent for the bad people.  It's good."

Corporal Henderson says eight other Joplin apartment complexes are in the program now seeking Crime Free Housing Certification.