Top Stories

Stowe Township business owners upset over rising crime

STOWE TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Business owners in Stowe Township are upset about rising crime in the area.

Anytime Market on Broadway Avenue said drug related crime and violent crime is increasing in the area, including a fatal shooting that happened this past January.

The convenience store said crime has gotten so bad, it now has 22 cameras inside and sells mace and knives.

Ultimately, the convenience store said what they really need is more police patrols in the area. They, along with 12 other area businesses, have signed a petition asking township officials for help.

“I would like to see a police presence and even governing attributes to be better educated on their position so to avoid any type of problems going forward. And bring about further decrease in criminal elements around here,” said Harley Seevers with Anytime Market.

Robin Parrilla, president of Stowe’s board of commissioners, said the commission is already addressing the issue.

Long before that petition started circulating, the township said it has been beefing up police presence -- especially in the business district. There are now 10 full-time officers, and the board passed ordinances prohibiting soliciting and panhandling.

Overnight, patrol units leave a tag on the door of businesses to let them know they have been checked.

And there is also a bike patrol officer frequently riding around the area, keeping an eye out for suspicious activity.