Video: Belltown residents fed up with crime

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SEATTLE – People living in Seattle's Belltown neighborhood and business owners are fed up with crime.

Wednesday night, they met with police and prosecutors and demanded from police to make their area safer.

Belltown used to be known as a very hip and happening place to live, but now residents say they are afraid to leave their home – even in broad daylight. Store owners say they are losing business because of drug dealing outside.

The neighborhood was once known for its lively bars, restaurants and high-rise condos, but lately it has become known for its crime.

Police say the number of assaults and robberies are similar to last year, but narcotics activity is way up.

By 2012, Seattle Police will increase its staffing by 25 percent, but the department says the number of officers on the street isn't the only answer.

"When you have high densities of living, alcohol establishments, and social services, we're going to have some challenges," said Capt. Steven Brown, SPD West Precinct.

But can the answer be found in time to save Belltown?

Seattle Police are already tapping into the Washington State Patrol to help tackle some of the problems, but other agencies, such as Social Services, the Prosecutor's Office, and Alcohol Enforcement, will have to play a role in finding a solution.