Police looking for strong-arm robbery suspects

Geeky Swedes Ballard

While we were covering Friday night’s carjacking, we heard the police talking about a string of strong-arm robberies. Today, we have the details of three robberies that happened in the 11 p.m. hour on Friday. The first incident happened on the 5600 block of Phinney Ave N at 11:12 p.m. Police say a woman was accosted by two men who stole her cell phone. Twenty minutes later, in the 3200 block of NW Market, a man was attacked by three young men. Police say the suspects hit the victim, knocked him to the ground and stole his cash. The third was an attempted robbery at the 2400 block of NW 58th. Four young men confronted a man and implied that they had a weapon. The man ran into his house, armed himself with a shotgun and chased the suspects away.

Police searched the area of 17th and 61st, after a homeowner called police about suspicious activity outside. Police questioned one suspect around 24th and 59th who matched the description of the earlier robberies. He was later released pending further investigation. Detectives are following up on these robberies.

Geeky Swedes

The founders of My Ballard

252 thoughts to “Police looking for strong-arm robbery suspects”

  5. This is pretty brazen. Also sounds premeditated in that they seem to have the numbers in their favor. While each incident may be random, clearly they are planning on creating trouble.

    Two on one is trouble, but anything beyond that is near leathal for a victim. This sounds like it is as much about hurting someone as it is about robbery. A shot gun is just about what a defender needs in that situation. Put one down, mame the other, and give the last man standing a choice.

    However, the numbers go against their favor. At some point the police will get one, at that point the others are SH*T Out of Luck.

  8. The guy with the shotgun should be given an award.

    I guess it's time to go buy one. Sigh. I've never wanted a gun in my life, but it seems very clear that the police have abandoned us, the city has abandoned us, and it's every person for themself. Your choice seems to be, allow yourself to be robbed, beaten, and maybe murdered on the streets of Ballard or maybe right in front of your home, or else take things into your own hands and fight back. We've seen all of this, and I don't think anyone can honestly say it isn't happening more and more.

    I choose to fight back.

    Where's a good place to buy a gun locally? Maybe that will be the next new business opening that's highlighted on this blog: Ballard Guns R Us. Growth industry!

  10. Right. Because there's never any connection between a massive influx of scummy transients and crime. That never happens.

    If only we would give free food to the robbers, I'm sure they would become friendly and nice.

  11. Yeah, I've never owned a gun in my life either. I'm seriously considering it, though. I hate feeling afraid walking home at night, and I've felt afraid a lot lately. Ballard has gotten nuts.

  12. Nothing like that was inferred or implyed. Just wanted to get past the buzzwords and name-calling before it started. Been on these boards long enough to recognize the pattern.

    Yes we have a homeless problem, yes we have a crime problem, yes I believe they are connected, yes I can bet who'll be responding with a no they aren't post……………..

    /sigh

  14. Go over to Wade's Guns in Bellevue. Take the intro to firearms class. Apply for your CPL. Wait 30 days.

    Take the self-defense class at Wade's while you're waiting for your CPL to come in. Make sure that this is something you feel you have to do.

    After 30 days, when your CPL comes in, take a friend over to Wade's and try out 4 or 5 different guns in the caliber you want. If you still want to arm yourself, they have a pretty decent (if somewhat pricey) selection of weapons/holsters/accessories.

  15. I've owned a hang gun for the better part of my adult life. Until roughly 6 months ago it sat in our home safe with a trigger lock on it. Recently, it is fully loaded and next to our bed. No, we do not have kids.

    Now that these scum in OUR neighborhood have moved on to violent crimes against residents – I've taken my rights to the next level. A Concealed Pistol License. It took about 1 hour to apply for and about three weeks to receive – CPLs are your right as a law-abiding citizen (no felonies) of Washington state. You can apply at the courthouse on 5th or any KC Sheriff's Office.

    CPLs are not for everyone – neither are guns. While a CPL allows you to conceal a loaded weapon on your person, anyone (ANYONE) can carry a non-concealed weapon. If you wish to own or carry a weapon please learn how – AND WHEN – to use it and fully understand the consequences.

    Could you really shoot someone? Really?

    I am not implying this is the correct answer to our recent crime wave in Ballard. Just understand that you have rights – I for one am taking advantage of mine.

  16. I am waiting for elenchos to announce crime has actually gone down and that is is this website that just makes it seem higher….no credibility to the many long timers who notice it is more prevelant…next thing you know it will be twitter's fault

  17. I had some weird stuff going on around my place this weekend too. for the first time since living there, sunday afternoon i had 2 transient mexican gentlemen passed out in my parking strip grass next to my car! one was going to the restroom next to my car and the other was passed out in the lawn next to my car. really odd…..as soon as i let my 2 rottweilers outside they quickly left down the street, heading east on 80th.( the men, not my dogs)

    then, sunday night i witnessed a drug deal RIGHT OUTSIDE of my house on the sidewalk on 19th. 1 totally frizzy hair older man who was just lost & wandering….and another who was driving around in a silver car.

    i did report both cases to the police and am not at all paranoid about it but do think it is pretty crappy as i have been here for years and have never ever witnessed this in front of my home! i also will email mindy to tell her about it as i am smack dab in the middle of loyal heights.

    i just wanted to get the word out….thank you guys. have a stellar week this week!

  19. Isn't there still a gun shop/training place on Aurora? Think it's called Butch's Guns?
    I'm not a tough girl. But I don't want to lock myself in at night. I wonder if you can fit a holster under a Snuggie?

  20. This is so frightening. I get home sometimes later in the evening, and walk my dog. Now am I not supposed to go out after dark? Where are the cops? I mean they SPD is at my neighbor's house almost weekly checking on his drunken wife (this is no lie), you mean to tell me they can't patrol the streets? I am scared to live in Ballard and I have lived here for 15 years. It makes me sad for such a great community to have these rash of very very violent and scary incidents.

    Do we start a Citizens on Patrol, like Belltown has?

  21. For guns, go to Wades in Bellevue:

    http://www.wadesguns.com/

    Very professional, very helpful to first time buyers with safety classes and a range.

    Butch's Guns is pretty useless but if you want a 38 special for $75 and no idea how to load it, they're your guys.

  25. Thanks everyone for the pointers to Wade's Guns in Bellevue. Looks like they have everything – including courses.

    Maybe it's time we start a campaign, maybe “Arm Ballard”? Let everyone know that we're fighting back, we're fed up, and we're not goin to put up with this crap anymore.

    Good for the morons running the city to know, good for the scumbags to know. We get enough people packing and maybe they'll pick a different neighborhood to rape…

  28. Here is what I dug up:
    Belltown Citizens on Patrol
    April 2, 2009 at 1:31 pm · Category: In the Neighborhood, Safety & Security

    A group of public safety minded community activists have been working diligently over the past few months with the Seattle Police Department and local government agencies to organize a Citizen Patrol in Belltown.
    Community response has been tremendously positive and supportive!

    This Citizen’s Patrol has already achieved many goals:
    Establishes a “positive” presence out on the streets in Belltown
    Is a great outreach tool to encourage/enable residents to meet new neighbors
    Engages/supports local business in their efforts to make Belltown a great place to do business
    Provides a fun, social atmosphere for dog walkers
    Please join in! If want to participate, just let us know at BelltownNeighbors@gmail.com and we’ll make sure to get you on the email list.

    Their flyer is posted here:
    http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/7328/bcopfly…

    I work in Belltown, and on some nights there are people that walk around with Yellow jackets that said “COP” Citizens on Patrol. Last week they had a real SPD cop there. Not sure how it started but I have seen it on TV lately as well. Ever since the Honduran bust.

    Belltowners are taking their streets back, and not it should be time for us to as well.

    I bet you can email the address and find out more info. :)

  29. I don't know whats scarier, a amall groups of thugs, or people who think because they've taken a class on self defense that they know how to handle a gun when the sh*t really goes down.

  33. Tell that to the man shot on the bus #27 last week; breathing through a tube at Harborview. I guess he won't be messing with any mothers soon.

  34. You officially have the most awesomest blog comment ever for working “Snuggie” into it. Nice work. Did you go on the Snuggie pub crawl recently? :)

  35. Nope. Shotguns are too unwieldy, and if you notice the guy who had to get his had to run into his house to get it. I'm pretty much the slowest guy I know and like to be able to walk more than 25 feet from my house.

    Just pointing out that it is an option, but not for everyone, and not without a lot of thought.

  38. A citizens patrol is a fine idea, but be wary. Need I remind you of The Simpson's episode where Homer starts a Neighborhood Watch group…

  40. Unfortunately, the first will inevitably lead to the second.

    Don't like the idea of a bunch of angry, freaked-out homeowners with itchy trigger-fingers patrolling the streets just looking for a chance to blow away the first scumbag they see? Fine. Find some way to get the cops and the idiot-mayor to do their jobs, so people don't feel so desparate they have no other choice.

    When armed robberies, beatings and murders become routine, just something to be expected on a friday night (and if you read this blog for a few days, you'll see they are now), don't be surprised if your neighbor decides he's had enough and the next time he hears a noise coming from the alley out back, he's going to grab a gun and go start shotting at whatever moves.

    Don't like it? I don't either.

    What can be done to stop it before the guy next door starts shoting at you when you're dragging the recycling out late one night. 'Cause stuff like that is GOING to happen.

  41. Do you have any proof that “stuff like that is GOING to happen (has it occurred in other cities, neighborhoods etc.),” or is it just pure speculation?

  42. Never a gun owner, but since Jan 1 I've bought 4 guns. A small .22 Sig Mosquito for my girlfriend and I to learn basic gun handling skills, a Remington 870 shotgun for home defense, a 9mm XD-M as a “nightstand gun”/something to have while dashing toward the 870 (in the event of a home invasion), and a replica “schofield” revolver just for fun.

    I bought the 870 within 3 hours of hearing my friend describe how he interrupted a home invasion at his house in Broadview. An unknown person literally smashed his way into my pal's house by throwing a paving stone through a floor-to-ceiling window. Fortunately, the assailant wasn't able to fit through the resulting hole, and left when my friend shouted. The police arrived 4 minutes later (speedy, but puts the truth to the classic line “when seconds count, the police are only minutes away”).

    My friend was armed with a tennis racket. I've chosen to go with something a little more substantial, in case a home invader has more tenacity.

    Anyway: good place to buy a gun is Discount Gun Sales, in Lake City. Don't go to Butch's. They're definitely of the “bubba gun nut” variety, and the place reeks of stale cigarette smoke. DGS is targeted toward the yuppie suburban buyer.

    Also, checkout this forum (http://www.thehighroad.org) for advice on choosing a weapon. For a forum full of gun experts, they're practical and realistic, and the forum moderators don't allow “gun nut” rantings or politics. When I was doing my research I was afraid all the sources for advice would be colored by right-wing rednecks, but THR seems to attract more moderate folk.

  43. No, it does not, not every one has the calm nor presence of mind to act in those situations. One bad shot, and someone not related to the incident gets hurt, one pause by the person with the gun, and the thugs could even get the weapon.

    This is not New York, or Washington DC. I suspect this “band' of amateurs is one group of young turks who are acting out of stupidity, not the product of an city with impoverished slums that stretch out for miles. My gut tells me, these guys will be caught, and when they are these aggravated assualts will cease to exist in Ballard.

  44. Problem the same group of Meth Heads that tried to strong arm me, by saying they just got out of jail. But, of course nobody is listening to the discription or beleives there is crime in Ballard.

  45. Thanks, BallardRocks. The PI (or Times) online had an article on the folks in Belltown. A citizen patrol may be needed here.
    And I don't know if arming Ballard is a solution. But I plan to look into arming myself.
    (I unfortunately missed the Snuggies, Travis. They were all farther down Ballard Ave than I got. But I was planning to join in next year, looked like so much fun).

  46. You will not get police patrols here. We have tried for months. But, they gave us cameras at the corner or 15th and Market, because WE are the problem.

  48. The problem with a patrol is that the Meth Heads, dealers in Bergen Park, and in frount of 7 11 are just looking to find out who you are. They patrol this every day from the library and are killers. They are looking to exact revenge on us, especially since we shut down the Meth Mouse behind Sip and Ship. Though, now they live in the house behind 711 that is also vacant. So, business is booming once again.

  49. Trix, check out the reply I made to ASDF, above. If you're serious about arming yourself, definitely check out THR for advice on weapon and training. For practical in-person advice, you can go to Bellevue for Wade's (a public range), or head to the cop range south of Boeing Field (http://www.spaarange.com/news.htm). At $50, the cop range has the cheapest “intro to pistols” course.

    To actually shoot at the cop range you need to be a member, which costs $50 initiation fee + $115 a year. The good news is, membership requires a criminal background check, which (presumably) weeds out the creeps. Anyone with a $20 bill can shoot at Wade's.

    Hm… I note that the police range offers a $70/year rate to “civilian groups”. ASDF, if you're serious about forming a group of reasonable homeowners, that'd be worth investigating. Everyone would save some money, and the group could get some quality training in how/when to use a gun.

  50. Please, that comment couldn't be more ignorant if you tried. Not all television is “the devil,” as you may refer to it. Actually, many television shows these days could be compared to film in regards to writing and direction. Three examples that come to mind immediately are The Wire, Arrested Development, and Six Feet Under. And while there is still a ton of crap on television (various sitcoms, reality television, fox news), the quality of programming has certainly gone up.

    Another thing, don't knock The Simpson's. It's not as great as it used to be when I was 12, but the impact it has had on the pop culture landscape and frankly culture in general, is undeniable.

  58. I seem to recall a recent story about a group of “young turks” – you know, a “band of amateurs” – who were “acting out of stupidity” as they bludgeoned a tuba playing street musician to death – just for fun.

    And after murdering someone in cold blood, they are now off the streets and in jail for…a few dozen weeks.

  60. Increased vigilance on the part of neighbors is the best policy. If I hear something late at night – I get up, walk outside, and check the street for suspicious folks. If we all work together to stay aware of what's going on in our neighborhood – then there will be way more of “us” than there are of “them”.

    If things are bad in a particular place or area – I think a citizen's patrol is a great idea. Maybe we can set up a rolling BBQ for friendly neighbors (with cameras) across the street from the drug dealing havens.

  65. The point I was making was in response to assertion that that these were merely (assumed) “amateurs” or “young turks” who were simply “acting out of stupidity” – and the implication that they are somehow less of a threat because they *may* not be the products of big city projects.

    Such young people acting out of stupidity can kill someone as surely as can gang bangers in New York or DC. Even in here in Ballard – or lower Queen Anne.

  66. I remember I used to see signs around the neighborhood that said “Re-Tree Ballard”. It was nice. It fit. It was appropriate for the neighborhood in those days.

    Now, I think “Re-Arm Ballard” is, pardon the expression, right on target, for today.

    Download your “Re-Arm Ballard” poster here:

    http://s612.photobucket.com/albums/tt206/ballar…

    Maybe if we start posting these around the neighborhood, people will wake up…

  69. Yes, she had a legal gun, a permit to carry and half a dozen witnesses, including the driver confirm that the man was shouting at her on the bus and followed off the bus and confronted her again on the street.

    Only sad part of the story is we will have to pay his tubing bill at Harborview. If only this woman was a better shot.

  70. Unfortunately when the main draw to any are is bars this sort of thing occurs a d Ballard is fast becoming a neighborhood of mostly bars. It ends up spreading out into the neighborhood.

  71. Try reading all the articles that have come out on this story Rosey dear, not just this one, but also the articles quoting eye witnesses, including the driver, who have confirmed her story.

  73. Yes, all those yuppies coming into Matadors and then car jacking each other on the street. What were thinking allowing pleasant watering holes in our neighborhood for middle class professionals to unwind?

  75. I'm OK with a gun going off once in a while on a busy street corner, if that's someone defending themself from an attack.

    It's not like there aren't shootings going on already….it's just the thugs pulling the triggers…

  76. True enough to the victim it does not matter. But if you look these police reports about these specific indicants in Ballard these guys are clowns.

    Yes, they are a problem, but look

    “Four young men …implied that they had a weapon”

    It took 4 and a threat!

    Violent crime is not usually an issue in this neighborhood. Crime like the kind they are perpetrating usually comes with a great deal of other issues that Ballard, and Seattle really don’t have. Combine that idea with their MO and its pretty clear these guys are pretenders. They have to hold each others hands because they are not bold enough, of tough enough, to do it alone. Even with 4 they let the guy get away. The pretend they have a weapon, when it’s not clear that they do. The operate at night, cause they are not smart enough to rob people during the morning and afternoon commutes like the cities I already mentioned.

    Maybe I’m wrong, but my take on this is that these guys are soon to be caught, and once they are we’ll all know for sure. But until they do, they are pretender clowns, and even if I am wrong, they are idiot clowns.

  80. The cops are letting Ballard implode. Who knows the reason, but it's obvious. We have open Meth Dealers in Bergen Park, The Chai House and outside 7 11 and they know it. They have even said when shown pictures “we need to catch them in the act.”

  81. The only crime in Ballard is coming from the soup kitchens and Food bank. There is nothing else drawing these criminal here by bus. Nothing!

  82. Your's seems pretty much over the top. I'm all for defending ballard, for example my house and neighbors on my block. Taking back the streets from scumbags using lethal weapons is quite irresponsible and will probably land you in prison.

  83. Have you ever stepped foot inside the chai house? The customers in there are the last people in ballard that I would worried being attacked by. How does slandering businesses which you know nothing about help anything?

  85. Thank you for your intelligent, well reasoned and researched response, TBOS.

    And really, how is that an appropriate response to my request?

  87. Also, didn't the cops break up that carjacking? They're around, they just can't be everywhere at once. That doesn't mean that Ballard needs to arm itself. Frankly, if you and the other guy are the ones with the guns, I'm petrified.

  88. Sure, lets close the bars in ballard, even the ones that have been here for 50 plus years. Or better yet move out here and you won't have to worry about it. Just leave ballard to us suckers that like ballard for what it is.

  89. I don't want a CPL, but I would like to take the gun course at the cop range, especially if some others from here would like to do so. I'm also interested in a citizen's watch group like the one in Belltown. Maybe those discussions could be moved to the forum?

  90. That's a horrible idea. The bars are the best part of Ballard. I attend most of the bars and somehow I manage to not mug people on the way home.

  91. So your solution is to remove the temptation for thieves? Give in? Roll over and play dead?

    no wonder these guys mug the weak and vulnerable first.

  92. I feel really safe now, with a bunch of squabbling children getting ready to arm themselves and shoot at anything that moves. My god.

  93. I offer no solution at all, just reality. Crime exists. Business areas dominated by bars draws crime. That’s all I am saying.

  98. Doesn't sound as much like transients as it does like wanna be thugs. I know that some of the transients are up to no good, but this sounds more like young punks trying to be tough guys.

    BTW, it's ma'am which is an abbreviation of madam.

  100. No, I'm just not freaking out over fairly typical crime increase due to an increase in bars and nightlife. Feel free however to get your shorts in a bind over something that will not change until the flavor of the neighborhood changes.

    Bars draw crime.

  102. I can't believe 1. what people are comenting and 2. that Ballard has worse crime than Delridge (West Seattle/White Center). I just moved here and am dumbfounded by the crime that has happened in just 1 month. In the 3 years I lived in Delridge it never was this bad.

    I think with the economy being so bad that people are resorting to robbing and I am sure selling or pawning the goods. Has anyone ever thought that Ballard is like a candy shop for criminals? I mean even when I am on my walks I can see flat screens through the front window. Hellooo that is like a beacon to someone looking to make a fast buck.

    Has there ever been a Ballard resident “crime stopper” meeting? The only way to stop this type of thing is for everyone to come together. Are there neighborhood watches in place? Have any meetings with law enforcement and the community taken place? I have noticed the homeless influx, but to blame all the problems on them is just a cop out. It could be someone from say Lynnwood who knows Ballard is a cash cow. I could be completely wrong but that is my two cents.

  105. Really.

    “The bars are the best part of Ballard.”

    Well, this statement certainly speaks volumes. Good to know where you're coming from. Thanks for that.

  106. i completely concur! what is the city going to do about this? i feel sick to my stomach about my beloved neighborhood i have peacefully lived in for the past 10 years.

  108. Your take on the perps sounds about right, but the problem is that one of them usually graduates to regular criminal while the rest will talk about how tough they were on the streets back in the day.
    Whether you're being mugged by a pro or an amateur, you're still being mugged. The other problem in this scenario is that when there's four of them you have a good chance of one of them getting violent to show off to his buddies.

  109. I disagree Roy.

    I find a good short-barrel shotgun such as as the 870 Express tactical w/ ghost ring sights to be the perfect home-defense weapon. I don't pack, but when it comes to protecting my home, there is no other weapon I would rather have.

    Ask any hardened criminal and they will tell you a homeowner with a pump-action shotgun makes their bowels gurgle more so than any other scenario.

    Now for those who want to pack it, then of course you will have to think about other options. For me, I'll stick with the Express.

  110. Actually Edog, a dog works pretty well too. I'd think that a good dog is a safer and better deterrent in most situations than a gun would be. At home your dog would bark first if someone was coming up and that should get any would be criminal to think twice. My dog foiled a break in of my truck at 3am that I would have slept right through. I let my dog out to chase the kid over the fence and down the block. A gun wouldn't have prevented that crime at all. In fact, the only time a gun would come in to play is when you're already in the situation, and not as a preventative of getting into that situation.

  114. A dog requires a lot of time, attention, and space to exercise. While I would love to have a dog (for a variety of reasons), for many of us, that's simply not a realistic option.

  116. A couple months ago in the comments a hippy girl defended the homeless in Bergen Park, said a bunch of stupid stuff, and mentioned the chai house, or her handle included ChaiHouse and ever since then BlackHelicopterOps/TakeBack has been railing against it.
    I do however agree with BHO/TBOS that there is an increase of drug addicts and transients in Ballard and that they do commit some crimes (just not that they commit all crime) and that this should be dealt with as a problem. By trying to pin everything on the homeless is a little counterproductive in my opinion because it could detract from the actual policing that is sorely needed in Ballard. The transients are just one part of the problem, not the entire problem.

  117. True. But just as dogs aren't the answer for everyone, neither are guns. I'm not really entirely opposed to guns, I just have some doubts as to the potential cost/benefit ratio and the efficacy of guns in preventing situations.

  120. The bars were here long before the crime was. Ballard bars are not the problem. Up until a few months ago I felt perfectly safe walking home from the local bars by myself. Something is different now. You can't blame the bars. They've been here for years, decades. There's a vibe of desperation here now, a product of the economy maybe.
    Wades guns will be hearing from me.

  121. Mr B pronounced: “Increased vigilance on the part of neighbors is the best policy. If I hear something late at night – I get up, walk outside, and check the street for suspicious folks.”

    Amen! Finally a rational suggestion on the comments.

  123. And SPG – a dog isn't an option for me. I have two cats in a small apartment. I've had dogs before and know they need more space and attention than I can offer.
    I agree a dog can be an option, though.

  124. It's not fair to claim that you are offering no solution at all, yet are quick to offer the solution of ridding Ballard of it's nightlife.
    Good luck with that, I'm trying to make it safe for Ballard to have a nightlife, or any kind of life…

  125. JK – Can a forum be set up for a citizens watch? I'd be interested. I've lived in Ballard for many, many years and I'm not used to being afraid here. I don't like being afraid here.

  128. Edog, totally agree, I don't think this is about cash as much as it's 'hood rat' bonding. We get to be the chumps that they climb their social ranks on the backs of. They need a new area to play in. Ballard needs to be off limits.

  130. Saw the same thing, and totally would support it. I'd rather support that than resort to the gun slingin', because, it's not an option for everyone.
    But, responsible home defense would have to include a shotgun. imho. It's a lot harder to miss, and if you do, you won't slaughter someone on the other side of the wall instead. (plus, they're damn intimidating to look at ;-)
    Please, please, learn how to use it from a pro, or don't get it.

  131. You shouldn't be afraid. Vigilant, but not afraid. Crime is up, but it's still not to the lock yourself in for the siege level. Get to know your neighbors, set up that block watch, and complain to city hall and the police dept until we get some patrols out here.

  134. I know that a dog isn't the answer for everyone, but neither are guns.
    Since I am a dog, (a dog with internet, but a dog nonetheless) I always suggest more dogs before I would suggest more guns.

  137. dont go to butches guns..they are rude and dont care to educate as they sell… discount guns on lakecity (dont let their name fool ya) is helpfull but for the novice….someone mentioned wades guns and i have to agree.. great selection and people are quite helpfull…you can rent guns before you buy..BUT.. for those that choose to own….please make sure to learn how to use it…. learning can be fun……… if you find yourself in a position where you need to shoot somebody….a gun will be helpfull

  138. the impact it has had on the pop culture landscape and frankly culture in general, is undeniable.

    Yeah, and I thought it was supposed to be a funny escape from reality.
    Kind of like your pot pipe, for example…
    Unfortunately, it leaves a lot of folks stupid.

  139. Thanks SPG. Yes the form works in all cases, and if it's private property, you have a responsibility to remove it, and can face fines if you don't.

  140. SPG – How can you say she should not be afraid. We have big guys like Todd being beaten. How can you say a woman is able to travel around Ballard without being attacked. These days, it is way too dangerous. Yes, a block watch is the way to go. They only problem, is how to do it without the Meth heads showing up like last time.

  141. Already been talked out of Butch's. They were closer than Wades, but if they can't teach me even the basics they're useless. Knowledge trumps convenience when it comes to guns.
    And I beg everyone thinking along the same lines to learn how to use a gun before getting one. I plan to be licensed and knowledgeable.

  142. Yeah, how do we set up a block watch? I'm not big, or tough. But this is my neighborhood, darn it. Do we all converge somewhere and plan routes and times?

  144. I'm amazed to see people living in Ballard that actually support guns. If some of you are actually serious about buying a firearm, I would suggest you do it as soon as possible. With Obama threatening to re enact the awb, prices for firearms and ammo have sky rocketed.

    If anyone would like advice or to discuss firearms, please feel free to email me.

    kason.k@gmail.com

  145. There are way more folks that are armed than I'd ever imagined. But a rush to buy guns is a bit alarming. I certainly hope that adequate training on how, and when to use them is included for these purchases.
    But that is my only fear, and it's nothing compared to letting the thugs have our streets the way they want them.
    Sir Winston Churchill, said,
    “An armed society is a polite society”
    Thanks to the caller that reminded me of that quote…
    We could use a bit more politeness, imho.

  147. A block watch is easy, and is currently in force in a lot of areas. Please join, the rules are caring for your neighbors, being aware of your surroundings, and reporting what you see.
    If you do just that, welcome to the block watch trix!

  148. Vigilance is one thing. Fear mongering is another. People are freaked out about the economy, on all levels. It makes desperate people do desperate things. And it makes for more incidents in general, but it's still skewed – this blog sounds more like a police blotter every day, inflaming fears and then the comments inflame more still. It's good to be aware, and it's good to have an actively involved community. But you cannot base the character and safety of Ballard on this blog. Yes, go find the police reports that say certain crimes are up… but they are everywhere, due to the economy.

    Read “The Culture of Fear: Why Americans Are Afraid of the Wrong Things” for how skewed things can get on an even national level.

    And I am a 15 year resident (a woman) who walks around Ballard by herself, day and night, with no problem, and no fear. I am not flaunting trouble here, I don't walk behind garbage dumpsters in dark alleys in any neighborhood …. just pointing out that it is not a given that we need to be scared.

  150. Yes, I agree. Ballard is so much worse off than, say Belltown. I'm so much much safer around 52 (52!) Honduran crack dealers, Detroit is also much safer, the Tuba Man was killed in Ballard, Bergen Park has been burned down, along with the library, Salmon Bay Park, and every business on Market Street. The homeless gangs have nuked the Locks, helicopters roam night and day as bullets whiz by, and tear gas hangs in the air at all times. Beware the Black Muslim Homeless Zombie Vampire Latino Gay Teenage Transient menace out to GET YOU! THEY'RE LOOKING AT YOU RIGHT NOW! RUN!!

    Please people, if you're going to get a gun, know how to use it, know what it does when you shoot it, how to draw it, how to aim, know what is behind the target (don't want to hit an innocent bystander, do you?), how much the gun kicks, count your rounds as you shoot (don't want to run out of bullets if you actually have to shoot, do you?), and learn to do all this under stress. Maybe even how to reload under duress as well.

    Really. Not kidding on this point. Get a CPL, take a course, and *Learn* how to use a very dangerous tool. Don't just buy a gun-amazingly bad idea. Please.

  151. Those assault weapons should be banned and only in the hands of the military. How cops have to die so some pea brain can have an automatic to play with?

  153. I've noticed more police presence lately, thanks neighbors! KEEP UP THE PRESSURE!!! Until our job is done, do not rest.
    The car jacker deal was foiled, primarily, because the police were already here in force due to these earlier robberies that were reported, according to the story that the Swedes posted, thanks again Swedes ;-)

  154. Dude

    Automatic weapons have required a license for many years. Semi automatic weapons, that “look like” automatic's don't. Get a clue.

  156. hahahahha!

    Are you kidding, me? I haven't smoked pot in years. Pot isn't a big deal, though.

    Also, obviously this is off topic, but if you don't notice the impact The Simpson's has had on pop culture, you're dense.

    Just because it is an escape from reality doesn't mean it can't have an impact. That's faulty reasoning.

  157. sure, demean the good folks, it helps your point greatly…NOT.
    Cops die at the hands of criminals, daily.
    Citizens die at the hands of criminals, daily.
    Criminals are put to death, either by citizens, cops, or a fourteen year process called justice…
    …unfortunately, not daily.

  158. Oh my god, I must be a horrible citizen because I like to go out with my friends and have a few drinks at the local watering holes!!!!

    You people need to grow up.

    And Look at Rose. Hi Rose. A model citizen calling a stranger pathetic on the internet. Kudos!

    Ballard happens to have a slew of fantastic bars. While they do have some shitty ones, the majority are a good time. Look, I love to go out to nice restaurants and get a good meal, but if you don't enjoy a drink every now and again, well, you're just boring.

  164. Attorney General, Eric Holder, has repeated the Obama Administration's desire to reinstate the Federal Assault Weapons Ban. It's not a threat. Remember the GOP's mushroom cloud? That was a threat!

  165. Wikipedia.org goes on to report:

    However on April 16, 2009, President Obama stated that he will not push for the reinstatement of the Assault Weapons Ban in the United States even though he still believes that it “made sense.”

  170. It was the #25 bus, and the shooting was not on the bus…but yes, despite the above response, a good example of what it takes sometimes, or, a better example of what folks think…and I can't blame them one bit.

  171. The reason I say you shouldn't be afraid is that it's a lousy mindset. You don't act rationally or effectively when you're afraid. Concerned, vigilant, aware, those are all good things to be and will keep you out of trouble. If you are simply afraid, you wind up becoming a target.
    I'm not saying that crime hasn't increased and we shouldn't be concerned about it, just the opposite actually, but we need to do something about it other than just be afraid to live our lives. The chances of being a victim are pretty small, and even smaller if you're aware of the dangers. Get out and live your life, but be aware of your surroundings.

  172. Yeah, I wouldn't care if it were a clown, or a four time loser.
    Tuba man was lost to this city, by honor role punks.
    Could be the same with Todd.
    Bottom line, stand firm and end it, by whatever means necessary.

  174. In response to a man being beaten in late 2008 near the Loyal Heights Community Center, we have formed Loyal Heights Watch and have a Google usergroup, where members can report criminal/suspicious activities. We are also planning a community meeting with members of GAIN and the Wedgwood neighborhood watch group sometime in the next couple of months.

    I am interested in the neighborhood citizens' patrol as well. We discussed that option at a neighborhood meeting, but those in attendance weren't in favor of it. However, if there are individuals who are interested, please get in touch with me. Although I am not in favor of walking around with a gun looking for a confrontation.

    mindy@loyalheightswatch.org

  175. I guess the vigilante comment I was responding to got banned, but I think it is worth pointing out that Seattle, though not Texas by any stretch, doesn't seem to come down too hard on it's citizens who defend themselves.

    There was a guy breaking in to a car in Northgate who was shot dead last winter. The car owner shot him with a rifle from his porch. No charges were filed.
    The guy who was the suspect, then cleared, of the new year's day murder a year or two ago was killed in Greenwood IIRC, when he tried to attack a random guy on the street. The guy turned himself in to the police who didn't charge him.

  176. That's valid. Guns don't project an anti-crime aura.

    But a gun sure would be good to have when, as my friend experienced, someone is literally smashing their way into your home.

  177. Yeah, I do agree with you that some moderation needs to be had here, but the reality is that the level of crime in the area has gone up quite a bit in the past year. Auto thefts are down, but business burglaries are way up. Burglaries, car prowls, drug dealing, are all up and I think that a lot of us are just fed up with it. The rational people here all know that we can take some precautions and not have to worry ourselves indoors for the rest of our lives, but we'd like to see some more police presence to deter these crimes and lock up the criminals.

  178. Mindy, the first rule of a citizens patrol in Ballard, or anywhere, has to be NO GUN PLAY. Seriously, enough trouble is available as it is…
    Thanks, as always, for your work.

  180. Also, not to mention that they function exactly the same as other rifles, use the same ammo in many cases, and in most cases are less lethal that regular hunting rifles. The AWB didn't work because it was based on cosmetics like having a pistol grip or a bayonet lug. What happened as that companies just changed the design of their weapons to comply with the new law. The weapons were exactly the same otherwise. After the AWB expired in 2004, it was then again legal to make cosmetic changes to weapons, like have a pistol grip and folding stock. Also, they are so expensive that they are not the weapons of choice for criminals, but for collectors for the most part.

  181. lol, the mask isn't needed…but the message? priceless!…thanks dink….can I call you dink? sorry, don't know if it's allowed ;-)

  182. Thanks SPG, all true, yet no license to be playing shoot em up in this town…
    Cooler heads have to prevail, and there is no 'silver bullet'.
    Vigilance, a good dog, trusty shot gun, vigilance, good neighbors, good laws, etc.
    Notice that vigilance is my first choice. oh, and a kitty…lol,…. and vigilance.

  183. “Criminals are put to death, either by citizens, cops, or a fourteen year process called justice…
    …unfortunately, not daily.”

    I know, because the death penalty has done so much to deter crime and our justice system is flawless to the point where no one innocent is ever, never ever, convicted of a crime they didn't commit!

    Who are these good folks, you speak of?

  184. Ballard needs bike cops now! They really help in so many ways, and are a good option for community policing. Please, bike cops!

  185. It'll be interesting to see how many accidental deaths result from this new Ballard gun hysteria. Will it be higher than the number of deaths at the hands of criminals? Most certainly.

  186. I think we could just print those posters and plaster them all over Ballard. You wouldn't even need the guns. Perhaps it would scare some bad guys. I know, wishful thinking…

  187. seems that there are folks receiving the death penalty with-out due process…
    …right here on our sidewalks.
    So you rally against that? right…

  190. Hear Hear!
    More Bike Cops!
    There is nothing that stirs my heart so much as bike cops patrolling my downtown neighborhood on hot summer days…ooooohhhhh.

  191. While I may not always agree with silence.kit, all we're doing is shifting the blame onto bars here. First it was the homeless, then the influx of yuppies and the condos, then the new businesses…proving that there is wealth in the area…now it's the bars. It is NO ONE THING. It is a culmination of things.

    How about working to find a realistic answer, and not attacking one another? Is that too much to ask?

  194. I agree with you, Trix. Just this past Saturday I was at The Bit for a friend's show and we noticed meth heads hanging out outside the bar, some peering in and making us uncomfortable. One of them, in fact, was a man who asked me for a dollar outside of Walgreen's and when I said no started following me to my car! Not cool.

    When we were walking home we passed another meth head and saw THREE cop cars going down the road. I hardly see one, let alone three. They weren't racing anywhere, but obviously making their presence known.

    It doesn't feel safe walking home in the dark from anywhere in Ballard anymore. It has changed, because I NEVER used to feel like this…it's not like me. I won't get a gun, but I will be hyper vigilant.

  195. Well, how many deaths have there been in Ballard at the hands of criminals?

    There's the homeless guy killed OVER A YEAR ago. There's the lady stabbed in her home SEVEN years ago. If anything, the low frequency of these incidents is evidence of how safe it is in Ballard. Did I miss any? Do you really think a bunch of paranoid armed civilians will make our streets safer than they already are?

  196. I still have the Obama sign proudly on display in my yard. Anybody who messes with it risks getting shot. So there's no incompatibility.

  206. Yes, we definitely need more people like him. I especially like the quote near the end, “He remains focused on trying to make Cincinnati a better place, whether it's fighting crime or feeding the homeless.” More crime fighting, less anti-homeless hate speech.

  209. I'm already moving out of this neighborhood (rejoice!), but if you lunatics for a little posse that patrols the streets, I'd advise everyone to.

  210. I just dont get why people just dont BUY their food like everyone else. If you can't afford it, apply for food stamps. Whats so damn tricky? Why do we need soup kitchens luring in every person just released from King County Jail, or as an incentive for people to sell their for stamps for beer and crack?

    The only reason a person would not apply for food stamps, is because they are wanted by the police. Without the soup kitchen and food bank, we would not have the parks and woods full of criminals on the run from the law. It's very simple.

  212. Blah, blah, frickin' blah (what movie is that from? Dear me, I'm a movie watcher too…figures).

    I've lived in this city for over two years, and, before I leave the country, I'd like to see it from a different perspective.

    Does having roots in the town give you a free pass to go insane? I have no commitment to Ballard because I don't want to see people forming posses and toting around guns? If anything, I care MORE (yes, more) about Ballard because I don't want this to happen.

    Why does it always have to be so black and white for some of you?

  214. Because not everyone qualifies to be on food stamps for more than a few months. And where do you expect these people to cook/store their food? It's extremely difficult but possible to live off of the $5 a day food stamps provide, but only if you have a place to cook. Get rid of soup kitchens and I guarantee that pan handling and shoplifting will increase.

  215. SPG,

    one of the cool things about disqus is that you can look at a posters profile and see all the aliases that they use.

    if you do this for TBOS you'll find that they ARE “hippie tea girl”. Do you remember “Susan”? another one of TBOS's aliases.

    Just click on the little face thingy and then click “view profile” and look at the list on the right.

  219. Years ago the bars were pretty much empty except for a few old toothless Scandahovians. Ballard Ave was pretty much deserted most nights.
    Trix you mightn’t be so scared if you stopped reading this trash. 90% of it is exaggerated.

  221. Trust me, I used to be afraid of gun owners too. Then I went out and purchased a handgun, and realized nothing changed except that I gained a new possession (and a means to protect myself and my family). There was no thunderbolt. A trucker hat did not suddenly appear on my head. My vote for Obama was not canceled. I'm still a Ballard liberal who prefers Maritime Brewery over Budweiser.

    The only difference is that now, if someone does smash their way into my house, I have a means to make that person stop before they have a chance to hurt me or my loved one.

    I hope that I'll never have to use my gun. Dialing 911 and hiding behind a locked door is definitely smarter than confronting an intruder–whether you're armed or unarmed. But again: when it comes to defending my or my loved one's life I think it's better to have a gun and not need it, than need a gun and not have it. This choice does not make me a “lunatic.”

  222. I'm proposing our own version of the Citizens On Patrol Group in Belltown. To kick things off, I call this “Operation LLS.” This stands for Light, Love, and Sound. For those who would like to join me, I'm advocating for a critical-mass style roundup for this Friday night in Ballard. We'll meet at Ballard Commons Park at 10:00 PM. Come on any type of wheels or on foot patrol. Below is are the parameters for Light, Love, and Sound.

    1. Light: Bring a flashlight, headlight, or spot light. As well as a candle.
    2. Love: Greet everyone you see in Ballard as if you were a paid Ambassador. Look for people walking on the street and greet them. Especially escort anyone walking alone.
    3. Sound: Bring whistles, air horns, and noise makers. Let people know were out in force and will continue to patrol our streets.

    Also, bring a notepad and pen. Record any street lights that are out. As well as indicate any business or public space that could benefit from additional lighting.

    We'll ride, walk, drive, and generally patrol our streets from 10:00-12:00. Meet back at the Ballard Commons Park for a candlelight closing and unification of our efforts.

    If all goes well, we'll do the same on Saturday night and continue this event on an ongoing basis.

  223. You know, there are a lot of people with motorcycles in Ballard. If you ever seen one of the Backfire nights at The Station, you would know what I mean. Maybe a Ballard patrol night or something like that can be organized. I would be a good excuse for people to show off their motorcycles and ride around Ballard. Just throwing it out there.

  224. That's actually a pretty good idea.

    Just make sure to not overdo it, you know? Maybe one night out of the week with the airhorns and all that?

  225. Good points above. If possible, please send the word to motorcycle riders. Also, I agree with the airhorn comment and frequency. Start with this Friday night. The sound aspect, for example, airhorns are really for ongoing use. If you were to see someone in danger, you would be prepared to blow your whistle or horn. You then call 911. No suspects would be accosted. The last thing you want to do is to take the law into your own hands. The premise is to show a united force. It's also a way to connect with people.

  232. I'm not advocating the vigilante thing. I forgot what the original comment was even about, something about how homeowners would be in more trouble for defending themselves?

  234. Wow. Lived here for two. whole. years. Who could have imagined? My gosh, that's practically forever. No wonder they're such an expert on this neighborhood.

    Don't let the door hit you on the way out.

  235. First of all, absolutely, Maritime.
    And no dink, you are no 'lunatic', just aware, and taking steps to make sure that you have options.
    Do people still believe in options?

  237. I didn't catch the comment, but definitely understand you to be no vigilante ;-)
    Homeowners are pretty safe (legally), while at home defending themselves.
    The gal that discharged her firearm after departing the #25 bus, she was taken into custody, and then released (without her gun). From there we'll see how it goes, but it's not cut and dried, even if you are justified. So, my point was, don't think that there's a free pass.
    Have a good night friend.

  238. Who is this “they're” you're speaking of? There's only one of me. Learn grammar.

    Are you what Ballard has to offer?

    …

    Are you it?

    My personal philosophy is that, when you're young, such as I am, three years is long enough to be anywhere. I'm moving on, but when I'm gone you'll still be worrying about the same old crap, trying to bring meaning to your life. Have fun!

  244. Silent Kit – Leave the poor man alone. Ballard is not even your neighborhood right? Some of us would like to get down the sidewalk, without tripping over vagrants like you.

  245. Yes, dont let the meth hit you in the ass Slient Kit. Good riddance! Lets see if we can repair some of the damge you created while here. Goodbye!

  247. Seriously, could you please stop creating a new alias every time you post a comment?

    Just a few of your aliases from your 'view profile':

    Take back our streets
    The End Of Ballard
    The kindly old woman 82
    Good Riddance
    Kindly old Norwegien Lady 82
    Kindly old Norwegian Lady 82

  248. The LLS guy never talked about guns – he said bring a light, a whistle or a noisemaker and be nice . . . where did the gun talk spring from?

  249. Thank you for mentioning the missing vigilante comment as I never read it and was wondering why everyone was talking about guns and masses of armed citizens.

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