Morris Heights parking lot to close due to increase in crime

A Morris Heights parking lot is permanently closing on March 1.

News 12 Staff

Feb 12, 2022, 12:56 AM

Updated 973 days ago

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A Morris Heights parking lot is permanently closing on March 1.
The Bronx business says it has been plagued by car robberies and threats of violence.
"When I tell you it's bad, it's really bad.  It's really sad we are closing the business.  We have to close the business," says Michael, a manager.
In the past four months, about five vehicles have been stolen from the lot by thieves pretending to be customers.
There is an NYPD traffic camera across the street from the parking lot, but Michael says that has not deterred criminals.
According to the NYPD's COMPSTAT, in the one-week period of Jan 31 through Feb. 6, 2022, there were nine grand larceny auto incidents within the 46th Precinct.  In the same time period one year ago, there was only one.
Michael says he noticed the spike and can no longer put his employees in danger. 
 "I tell my guys they coming to rob you just given turn the car because their lives are more important," he says. 
The 24-hour lot has been a staple in the community for more than 20 years, and serves many taxi drivers, local teachers and first responders who live or work in the neighborhood.