Safety Concerns Surge: Residents Express Frustration with Wedgewood Apartment Complex

By J. Alex- Jan 9, 2024

In Columbus, Ohio, Wedgewood Village looms as the city's largest low-income property complex, yet it's a place where many residents are increasingly disheartened and feel trapped in a distressing environment they'd rather flee than endure. Jeffery Harmon, dwelling there for two years, doesn't mince words: "terrible," "horrible," and "deplorable" are the haunting labels he assigns, reverberating the sentiments shared by numerous neighbors. Those relying on Section 8 housing vouchers are profoundly affected, with rampant crime levels instilling a haunting fear, especially after dark, fostering grave concerns for their personal safety.

Living amid the constant backdrop of gunshots has instilled genuine terror among the residents. One anonymous voice shares a haunting reality: the ever-present risk of being caught in the crossfire of stray bullets within Wedgewood. It's a chilling illustration of the everyday security challenges that have woven into the fabric of their lives.

Recently, the Columbus City Council contemplated injecting $44,800 into fortifying their ShotSpotter contract, aiming to furnish law enforcement with advanced technology to swiftly respond to gunfire incidents. While some acknowledge the potential benefits of ShotSpotter, skepticism lingers about its ability to untangle the deeply rooted issues plaguing the community. Many are vocal about the need for substantive actions targeting the individuals perpetuating these crimes, highlighting the pressing need to address the root cause for any meaningful transformation to take root.

Jim Harrington, at the helm of Independent Management Services overlooking the property, doesn't shy away from pointing out larger systemic frailties, attributing Wedgewood's security woes to the failings of the justice system. Despite investments in surveillance and additional police patrols, Harrington underscores the systemic inadequacies allowing criminal elements to persist.

City Attorney Zach Klein acknowledges the multifaceted nature of Wedgewood's challenges, advocating for a collective, inclusive effort involving property management, residents, law enforcement, and the broader community. Klein stresses the necessity of collaborative efforts, urging residents to report incidents and advocating for continuous security improvements while signaling a need for systemic reforms within the justice system.

Despite these acknowledgments and collaborative intentions, residents continue to wrestle with profound distress, their daily lives shadowed by looming safety concerns and the constant reminder of undesirable living conditions. Their collective plea for comprehensive solutions resounds, emphasizing the urgency to address the persistent challenges that entangle Wedgewood Village in turmoil.

Photo byThe Columbus Dispatch / Staff