Aggieville business owners, police discuss crime prevention

MANHATTAN (KSNT) - Aggieville is a prime spot for people to gather in Manhattan. An increase in people can also bring an increase in crime.

The Riley County Police Department (RCPD) was in Aggieville Thursday to hear the community's concerns.

RCPD Director Brian Peete said he's working until crime hits zero.

"Numbers and statistics, whether they're low, that's not good enough for us. One fight, one incident is too much for the Riley County Police Department," Peete said. "So, we're investing more time and effort into seeing, getting direct feedback from members of the community regarding what they want to see RCPD doing here in Aggieville."

Peete and other top officers were in Aggieville today to talk with businesses. Many business owners spoke to the officers and voiced their opinions.

Dennis Cook, the Director of the Aggieville Business Association told 27 news his thoughts on how he hopes the RCPD will serve Aggieville.

"We've always had this little conflict between enforcement and protect and serve," Cook said. "If you want everybody to be safe on I-70, you put those highway patrol cars top of the hill, very visible. Maybe put up a sign or two that says, you know, we're checking your speed. That's protect and serve. But, if they're hiding behind a billboard, just to come out and chase you and arrest you for driving over the speed limit, that's enforcement. And, I would prefer to see protect and serve rather than enforcement."

Jeff Denney, an owner of Auntie Mae's Parlor, shared Cook's sentiment.

"If they were out just making contact with the people and, you know, letting everybody know that they're here if they're needed. That would be nice," Denney said.

Everyone 27 News spoke with today emphasized that Aggieville is a safe, family venue. The police department said they take all opinions into consideration.

Recently, the entertainment district has been expanding rapidly, with at least three new businesses expected to open by the beginning of the next school year.

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