Boston Beefs Up Police Patrols at Mass. and Cass After Series of Stabbings

More police will be out patrolling the area commonly referred to as Mass. and Cass, a long troubled part of Boston located along Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard.

The added police presence is coming in response to a recent uptick in violence, according to police, who cited a series of stabbings in the South End neighborhood.

WATCH ANYTIME FOR FREE

Stream NBC10 Boston news for free, 24/7, wherever you are.

Five stabbings were reported in the area in just a matter of three days, the Boston Herald reports. Several occurred at the Boston Public Health Commission-run Engagement Center.

Get updates on what's happening in Boston to your inbox. Sign up for our News Headlines newsletter.

Overall, some violent crimes in the city like homicides and robberies are slightly down from last year, but other forms of violence are on the rise. Aggravated assaults have jumped by 13%, burglaries at businesses are up 66% and car thefts have risen by 35%.

Community activists are concerned about the violence occurring along Mass. and Cass after a significant effort by the city to reduce the homeless population in the area just months ago.

A spokesperson for Mayor Michelle Wu said in a statement: “The safety of Engagement Center clients and staff is our top priority. The Boston Public Health Commission is working closely with the Boston Police Department to enhance safety procedures. We continuously monitor and evaluate our safety and security protocols to ensure they meet our current needs.”