Police Plan Increased Downtown Presence With High Visibility Effort

Published on July 08, 2024

Date: July 8, 2024
Incident Type:
Location: Zone 2
Summary:

Pittsburgh Police will be expanding its patrol presence in the Central Business District (CBD) following a recent uptick in crime and disorderly activity Downtown.

In response, a new High-Visibility Police Patrol initiative aims to create a safer environment throughout the district, around the clock.

As one component, Downtown Public Safety Center (DPSC) supervisors and officers will receive additional support from K-9, Cycle Unit, and Violence Prevention Unit officers who will focus on specific areas and issues of concern Downtown, as identified by police supervisors.

In addition, a dedicated High-Visibility Patrol vehicle will have a nightly presence patrolling the CBD. This vehicle will operate with its overhead red and blue lights activated at all times.

Often called "cruise mode", the overhead lights will remain steadily lit, but not flashing. This strategy has been used successfully by departments in other U.S. cities to serve as both a crime deterrent and a way to quickly identify police vehicles in an emergency, or when an officer is needed.

"The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police is committed to ensuring the Central Business District - and all Pittsburgh neighborhoods - remain safe and welcoming for all. We believe these measures will enhance public safety and provide a highly-visible reminder that police are available and operating in the area throughout the evening," said Chief Larry Scirotto.

The initiative will be implemented in the coming weeks.

Reporting PIO: Cara Cruz

2024-07-08
PIO@pittsburghpa.gov