Another Center Moriches meeting addresses reported rise in crime

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Center Moriches has had an increase in crime in the downtown area, according to police. The meeting on Tuesday at the high school about this was so packed, it had to be moved to a bigger room. A similar meeting is happening at the Center Moriches Community Center. Residents say they reported to police about the increase in suspected crimes around the end of August. The alleged crimes include public drinking and public lewdness. A couple is also accused of committing a lewd act on a bench by the elementary school - twice. Police say they stepped up patrols in response and are issuing tickets. "