It's summer, the time of year kids are usually playing anywhere they can outside, but in one section of Warren, a local church is trying to make sure youngsters have fun but play only in and around their facility.
Agape Assembly on the city's west side say they encourage youngsters to come to the church and spend the day. They say they are concerned with the crime on the streets and they want to keep children safe.
"You have to be cautious," said Randy Pugh of Agape Assembly. "When I was a kid, I played anywhere, but now you can't do that."
Those at the church and others living nearby on the west side say they are concerned about the recent layoffs. Twenty-four cops have been laid off since January, and eight more may be laid off by July 19 if concessions are not made.
"The cops do a good job but there are not enough," said Timothy Surrette. "Instead of laying off eight, they need to be getting 80."
His friend, Mike Parker, agrees. "If something bad happens, how are they going to get there without someone getting hurt or killed," Parker said.
Councilman Bob Dean told us he is also concerned and says right now the police department needs the help of the community. "We will be depending on the community to work with police," Dean said.
Police officers say they will continue to work diligently. "We are taking every call," said Jeff Cole, Warren Police Department's public information officer. "We are the police and we will do the best we can with what we have."
