SAGINAW, MI (WNEM) -
Citizens of Saginaw are on a mission to take back their city. They hit the streets Wednesday night in an effort to prevent crime, one neighborhood at a time.
"We've seen all the crime devastation so we know we need to do something for the little ones that are coming up. So we're trying to set an example," said Frances Irvin.
She is one of dozens of residents joining forces with local and state police in the Light up the City campaign. They were out knocking on doors in neighborhoods on the northeast side of Saginaw Wednesday. They urged people to turn on their porch lights and get more involved in their community. Police say doing so could help limit criminal activity.
"Build that community atmosphere. Get everybody involved. That's what we want, and we hope that will put a big dent in crime," stated Chief Brian Lipe of the Saginaw Police Department.
After speaking with one of the volunteers, Jettie Hoggs immediately turned on her porch light. After a deadly shooting on her block earlier this month, she says she's thrilled to see action being taken to stop the violence and she'll help in any way she can.
Police and other concerned citizens are counting on her and other residents' support to bring about much needed change.
"We're going to get out and show these people that are committing crimes that we mean business," added Irvin.
Light up the City will take place in different neighborhoods over the next nine weeks in the city of Saginaw.
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