Mayor Benjamin: “Five Points is safe, but it can be safer.”

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — Thursday a show of force rolled into Five Points. For the second time this week, crowds drew to hear what city officials are going to do to keep the streets, safe. “Those of you with reasonable concerns and fears, I will assure you that we are on top of it,” says Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin. “We’ve been panhandled, followed home,” says Will Ponder, resident of Five Points. Ponder recently moved to Five Points from Shandon, he says he regrets the move and fears for his family because of crime on these streets. “I don’t like for my wife to bring the kids down here without me, even during the day,” says Ponder. Mayor Benjamin tried to calm those fears. “These streets belong to the City of Columbia and we will make sure you and your family can walk these streets free from harm and free from fear,” says Mayor Benjamin. Parts of the conference diverted to the issue of underage drinking and bar fights. “If a businesses business model is focused on overserving underage drinkers we need to make it crystal clear, we will shut you down,” says Mayor Benjamin. But bar owners say they aren’t the problem. “The kids committing these crimes are not bar customers. The police have been chasing their tails by going into the bars and spending too much time there,” says Scott Linaberry, Five Points bar owner. Even still, Mayor Benjamin says crime has dropped 26% in Five Points. Yet, this past weekend’s reports of assault are fresh on the minds of Midlands citizens. But according to city officials, changes are coming. “Expect to see more barricades controlling access in and out of surrounding neighborhoods. Expect to see a focus on DUI and drugs. Expect to see a gang task force shining like a laser beam on the small number of violent offenders that will take advantage of any situation,” says Mayor Benjamin. It’s a situation officials plan to remedy. “Five points is safe, but it can be safer,” says Mayor Benjamin.