Temporary security measures in Fairfax to combat rising teen crime, trespassing

The City of Fairfax Police Department, which is still dealing with staff shortages, has been getting growing concerns from residents and business owners about individuals trespassing, loitering, and shoplifting.

Officials may have found a temporary solution, but it is not a common one: Using private security to patrol different neighborhoods.

The police department has engaged Alpha Security, a private security provider that is already under contract with the City of Fairfax Parks and Recreation. Over the past several months, the region has also seen an increase in teen crime, aggravated, assaults and street racing.

READ |

In neighboring Fairfax County, police just arrested seven teenagers in what they called a violent series of crimes that occurred in September.

So these unique guard duties will include foot patrols, business and community outreach, and serving as highly visible deterrents to crime. The uniformed guards will communicate with police officers if enforcement action is required. These guards don't have the power to take a rest, but the department said they are extra eyes and the extra visibility will help.

The guards patrol the Old Town Commercial District Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Other guards will be patrolling the two park areas on Stafford Drive Park and Draper Drive Park. daily from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The program is scheduled to run until Dec. 22 and will cost about $17,000, according to city documents. After that, the department will evaluate and see if they should extend it.