Senator Klein, Community, Announce New Security Cameras At Van Nest Park

Cross-County Bank Funds Installation of Crime Deterring Devices

VAN NEST, BRONX, N.Y. – Senator Jeffrey D. Klein, (D-Bronx/ Westchester), today announced the installation of two new security cameras that will give police new tools to deter crime within Van Nest Park.

“This is about a community banding together and fighting for their neighborhood,” Senator Klein said. “I'm proud to have helped make these cameras a reality, and help Van Nest families take back the park that rightfully belongs to them.”

Van Nest residents have long complained about nighttime drug and gang activity in the park, which is supposed to close at dusk. The ongoing issues surrounding the park are what spurred neighbors to form the Van Nest Neighborhood Alliance. Senator Klein helped Alliance members secure the proper permits to get them installed, and arrange for police to have access to them.

"Van Nest Park used to be a big problem" said Shradhanand Pirtam of the Van Nest Neighborhood Alliance "It was a hotspot for drug transactions and other questionable activity after dark."

The $1,000 to fund the cameras was provided by Cross County Federal Savings Bank, which had recently opened a Van Nest branch. 

“On behalf of Anthony Milone, President of Cross County Federal Savings and our Van Nest Branch, thank you for giving us the opportunity to support the community,” said Wendy Bermudez, Vice President/ Branch Coordinator for Cross County Federal Savings Bank.

"We're grateful to Senator Klein and Cross County Federal Savings Bank" said Bob Ruggerio of the Morris Park Merchants Alliance. "Cross County has shown to be very active in our community since they opened in June."

-30-