Center Opens in Heart of Crime-Stricken Area

By Colleen Chen, NEWS 9

OKLAHOAM CITY -- A neighborhood in the northeast side of Oklahoma City has seen an increase in crime, but city leaders are working to change the area's image.

The controversial pharmacy murder occurred in the area around SW 26th Street, where two teenagers attempted robbery of Reliable Pharmacy.

Antwun Parker, 16, who was shot to death in the incident, was from the area. The 14-year-old now charged with his murder also spent time in the neighborhood.

City leaders say it's a tough area, but change is coming as they embark on the Safe Community Coalition and Weed and Seed programs.

Both projects' efforts are aimed at weeding out the negative and planting good opportunities. The coalition is spending $1 million on prevention, $1 million on stepped up law enforcement tactics and $500,000 on helping those in need transition back into productive lives.

A center is now open at Northeast Center Park where Oklahoma City police officers work with gang interventions.

It's also where families can watch movies, have access to technology and ministry for free. The hours are limited now, but in a few weeks will expand from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

"The goal is to provide more opportunities and a sense of pride in the community," said Ed Martin, who heads the program. "Change will take time, but it is coming. In neighborhoods where the Weed and Seed program has been in place, crime rates have dropped 70 percent."