Recent robberies plague West Grove

Four robberies have occurred recently in the West Grove, members of the Coconut Grove Village West Homeowners and Tenants Association learned recently.

“These aren’t visitors who are being targeted,” said Neighborhood Resource Officer Jorge Colina. “They are residents of the West Grove. It appears the offenders are from the West Grove as well.”

The news of the robberies comes at a time when crime overall in Coconut Grove is in decline, Colina said.

But he urged West Grove residents who do not have alarms in their homes to keep their car keys by their bedsides at night. If they hear or see something suspicious, pressing the panic button could scare away potential thieves. It also will help prevent cars from being stolen if homes are broken into.

“I am very much about quality of life,” Colina said. “So I want to encourage everyone to let me know if there is any issue you are not happy about.”

Colina gave out three phone numbers for the Miami Police Department that residents may call: 305-389-7996, 305-303-9163 and 305-643-7175.

Also on the agenda at the Feb. 22 HOATA meeting at the Frankie Rolle Center was discussion of beautification projects that also will add to the area’s safety by bringing more lighting to the area.

Through the community pride project, said Jihad Rashid, HOATA second vice president who also serves as president and CEO of Coconut Grove Collaborative, other sore spots will get attention, including overgrown shrubbery and abandoned lots.

HOATA is looking for young Grove residents to become members. Executive meetings are held two weeks prior to the general meetings each month.

“We need new, young leadership,” said Lottie Person, the group’s first vice president. “We want someone who is committed to this community.”

The association’s next meeting will be from 7-9 p.m. March 22 at the Frankie Rolle Center, Room 115, 3750 S. Dixie Hwy.