Delano crimes are happening in Grand Coulee

In light of recent events in Delano, I think it’s time that the community hear it from an actual resident. I have noticed that everyone enjoys the gossip but when it comes to actual crimes happening, everyone becomes Helen Keller - You don’t see anything, you don’t hear anything and you don’t have anything to say. This includes other Delano residents. Everyone becomes a Facebook sleuth and willingly lends their opinion, but no one actually wants their names on paper.

It’s important that the community understand that the crimes that are happening, are happening in the Grand Coulee city limits. A large portion of Delano was annexed into the city years ago. It seems quickly forgotten when the residents of that portion need their streets plowed, or enforcement when it comes to having people living in RVs on property that is not designated for them, property filled with copious amounts of trash and broken-down vehicles. I guess it blends in with the rest of Delano, right? There are 3 flop houses in the Grand Coulee city limits in Delano. As residents we all know them, we can point them out, we can name them - yet it falls on deaf ears and blind eyes.

Let it be known that there are plenty of us who are not participating in illicit activity. There are plenty of us not abusing substances, stealing your property, vandalizing your property or anything of the likes. What is in Delano are families, people with small children, people starting a new life in a new place, elderly residents, upstanding citizens who are caught in the crossfire. Working class citizens who are trying to find peace in their homes and lives.

Grand Coulee take note, it’s only going to get worse. With no police presence and longer response times - it’s only a matter of time. And it’s not going to stop in Delano, it’ll be your neighborhood next. It will be your lives caught in the crossfire. I think it’s time we start holding accountable those who are responsible for these types of people having a place to stay. Homeowners, landlords - Your time to hide in the shadows and to reap financial gain should be limited. You should be held fully accountable for the actions of the people you allow to frequent or rent your properties. There are homeless camps in Delano on property where the owners have desperately tried to get them removed - to no avail. No help for the people who don’t want them here, plenty of resources for the ones who allow them.

If you want something to change - be the change. Be willing to stand up for yourself and your neighbors. Put your foot down and say that things will no longer be tolerated. Go to your city’s government and request change. Start a neighborhood watch program. Write or call your law makers. Contact your Sheriff, make contact with your county’s prosecuting office. Being a keyboard warrior on Facebook, making off-handed comments to a group of friends - None of that is change, not a single bit of it helps.

Jamie Holeman

Delano Resident