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I-TEAM: Is State Liquor Authority part of the problem on Buffalo's Allen Street?

Posted at 8:16 AM, Nov 21, 2018
and last updated 2018-11-21 08:18:09-05

The 7 Eyewitness News I-Team has learned Buffalo police are gearing up for what's called the busiest party night of the year.

The department is putting together a specific plan, we're told, to mitigate any problems, especially on Allen Street.  Details of that plan are not being released.

Last week we told you about the more than 1,000 911 calls, on Allen Street alone, made between January 1 and October 31.

The city councilman, who represents that area says he's tried to stop establishments from getting liquor licenses, but has failed.  

In response to our investigation, Council President Darius Pridgen says this problem falls squarely on the state.

"It is outside the jurisdiction of the City of Buffalo. But we, the taxpayers of the City of Buffalo still have to foot the bill for extra police in these areas.  I think that's unfair. I think the bar owners need to be held accountable. I think if the SLA is going to continue to give license to places -- new places in that area -- they should be helping pay for security, not the taxpayers of the City of Buffalo," Pridgen said.

Pridgen says he wouldn't be surprised if the mayor moved in and closed some bars, in response to continued crime and violence on Allen Street, as has been done in other areas around town.

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