PITTSBURGH — A Brookline business owner is taking steps to protect the community after a series of incidents.
In just the last few days, a dry-cleaning business was robbed; an employee assaulted.
Saturday, a custom-built nativity scene was vandalized just feet away at Tree of Life Open Bible Church.
“It pulls at the deepest part of your soul to have somebody violate something that is a symbol of your faith,” Pastor Lance Rhoades said.
Tom Swartz has owned Steel City Craft Emporium for two years. About a month ago, he got the idea to form a community watch group after dealing with vandalism issues.
“It’s just time. Somebody has to do something,” Swartz told Channel 11. “Just be noticeable and report things.”
He calls the group Boulevard Bouncers. The issues have been along Brookline Boulevard.
Swartz says he’s been in contact with Councilman Anthony Coghill and plans to hold a meeting soon.
Pittsburgh Police are investigating the incidents at Chuong’s and the church.
More information on the community watch group can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1788303318099415/user/61572413605454/.
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