Frustrated SE Portland business owners plagued by burglaries, ‘lawlessness’
PORTLAND, Ore. (KPTV) – Frustrated business owners in Southeast Portland are asking for help, after months of burglaries, vandalism and what they describe as general lawlessness.
Emre Taskin, who owns Wild Shaman Kilims and Rugs on SE Grand said he’s spent close to $20,000 dollars since March, 2020, repairing damage from break-ins and vandalism. This past Saturday, his surveillance cameras captured a man kicking in the glass on the front door of his business. Taskin said the burglar stole his high-end camera.
“People who are doing this, they feel really comfortable while doing that. They feel like nothing’s going to happen. No response will come as quick. They can do whatever they want,” said Taskin.
Taskin said he’d like to see a more visible police presence in the neighborhood, and a quicker response when he calls for help.