Neighborhood Warning: Used Syringes in Lincoln Park
An anonymous flyer has been distributed in the Lincoln Park area stating that “In the past 12 months, used syringes have been discovered at least 6 times, in the open, on or near the grounds of Lincoln Park. The most recent occurrence was on Thursday, January 22nd when a used syringe was discovered (and handled) by a 5 year old girl.” The flyer instructs residents to check the grounds of the park for dangerous material, especially syringes, and to contact the Falls Church Police if hazardous material is found. The flyer also asks people to be on the lookout for suspicious activity in the park, especially at night.
By Stan Fendley, Falls Church City
February 7, 2009
I hate this kinda thing. I’ve taken my kid to Big Chimney Park on many occasions only to discover teens smoking pot while occupying the play equipment. I only go to that park in the mornings now.
The news report about needles in our city park left me stunned with disbelief. Those of us who live and work in this beautiful city are here because we value our hardworking neighbors, our pro-community standards, and our safety. Those of us who live in Falls Church know what an oasis we have. We’ve watched Falls Church make some significant milestones over the years as we have evolved into the prosperous, socially responsible, and pro-community town we enjoy today. These drug needles in Lincoln Park represent a serious threat to these values that we have nurtured for our children and families. This criminal element no more belongs here than the recent influx of gang markings on our sign posts, mailboxes, and public places. Let me be clear, “criminals, gangs, drug dealers and users are not welcome in Falls Church City.” If you agree with me, the this is going to take commitment and action from all of us who live here to educate ourselves about these problems, investigate ways to stop it, work with the FC Police Department, and send a clear message that this type of behavior will not be tolerated by our good citizens. If we are complacent now, these “weeds” will take root, and this will eventually grow into a much bigger problem. Let’s take action now so we can keep our community safe — before a single child pricks her finger on a discarded needle and is exposed to the AIDs virus, hepatitis, or other horrible diseases. Good citizens of Falls Church, I invite your comments and offers to step up and/or organize a neighborhood watch or collaborate with the police and other watch groups in other proactive ways to keep Falls Church the type of community that it is and tells criminals that we will not tolerate them or their unlawful behavior that they present to our children. If you agree with me, I invite you to join me in exploring options to keep Falls Church safe. You can contact me by email at: nova_john@hotmail.com
Thank You. John Thomas
This just in from the WTOP news line. Wonder if our original report prompted it?
COPS STEP UP PATROLS AFTER NEEDLES FOUND IN FALLS CHURCH PARK
FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Police in this quiet town have picked up their patrols after needles and syringes started showing up in Lincoln Park, a playground for toddlers.
The findings prompted a police warning to anybody using the park.
“It’s potentially very hazardous for them to pick up a needle, not knowing if it could be from a drug abuser or if it could be from somebody dumping their medical paraphernalia,” says Deputy Police Chief Mary Gavin.
Anyone who sees a needle is advised not to pick it up.
(Copyright 2009 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)