SAN ANTONIO -- Public parks are a summertime favorite for families, but after a series of recent arrests, News 4 WOAI noticed they are a hotspot for criminals as well.
From car burglaries to sex offenses, San Antonio police officers arrested 119 people this year for crimes committed at parks.
"During the summer months, it's busier, so things occure more frequently," says SAPD Police Chief Bill McManus. "We are out there, you'll see us, and you won't see us, but we'll be there."
Police are beefing up patrol at public parks, both in uniform and working undercover, to keep an eye out during one the busiest times of the year.
Residents who frequent the park say the crime is nothing new.
"One time while we were running and playing with the kids at the playground, a police officer came to us and asked if we had seen a nude man running through the park," adds Colleen Moberly, a mother and avid runner.
Still, parents are concerned a place where children play has also become a stomping ground for crooks.
"It's a big concern," says Lori Deluca, who was at the park watching her children. "You bring your children to the park and you really want them to be able to relax and have fun and you really can't do that when you think about someone coming and harming them."
If you want to report any suspicious activity, call SAPD's Non-Emergency number at 207-SAPD.
