Residents fed up with spike in car part thefts in Bedford Park
In some cases, they say cars have been left stripped of their tires and propped up on milk crates — a sight many say is alarming and unsettling for the community.
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Residents in the Bedford Park section of the Bronx say they are growing increasingly frustrated following what they describe as a recent spike in car part thefts throughout the neighborhood.
In some cases, they say cars have been left stripped of their tires and propped up on milk crates — a sight many say is alarming and unsettling for the community.
Devin Whitehead, who has been capturing photos and videos of the thefts over the past few weeks, says the situation is becoming a growing concern.
"Just imagine how someone feels getting into their car that's right next to a car sitting on milk crates," Whitehead said. "That's just frustrating. Someone is trying to start their day, go to work, and they see that happen to a neighbor."
Whitehead says he has a personal connection to the area, having spent time there growing up. He played baseball nearby, and his mother attended Lehman College, located just blocks away. He says that connection makes the situation even more troubling.
"That's why the frustration just grew," he said. "You want to see the community thriving, not cars being vandalized and people worried."
The issue has also hit close to home for Whitehead. He says his uncle, a taxi driver, was recently a victim of car part theft.
"It's really a slap in the face," he said. "You come out and you're missing wheels. For people without full insurance, you either pay out of pocket or deal with a deductible. A lot of people are living paycheck to paycheck. Extra costs like secure parking or comprehensive coverage aren't always possible."
Residents say they are hoping increased awareness, along with stronger prevention efforts, will help curb the problem and bring relief to the neighborhood.
