Five years ago the police standing in a white circle and directing traffic on Greenwich Avenue were removed. The Greenwich Legislative body (the RTM) was set to take a non-binding vote on bringing cops back at its Monday March 10 meeting. However, the resolution was withdrawn.
Those in favor of bringing police back to the Avenue say that police are needed to direct chaotic intersections and to act as a deterrent for criminal activity that has increased since the officers were removed.
Greenwich Police Chief Heavey issued a statement explaining how police resources are now more effectively deployed without need for stationary traffic officers. An ORCA (Organized Retail Criminal Activity) team has been formed and police are using more flexible foot and bike patrols.
He addressed the increase in crime in the downtown area since 2019, including large scale shoplifting, identity theft and misuse of fraudulent or stolen credit cards. Last year, the police investigated 71 cases resulting in 130 arrests for 363 felonies. So far in 2025, there has not been an increase in crime; however, more arrests have been made for property crimes.
Between the Lines - We will celebrate when the data shows crime is down.