CHICAGO (WLS) — West Loop neighborhood leaders held a safety presentation Tuesday night to help residents empower themselves to take back their sense of safety in light of recent crime in the area.

Laura Pearlman has lived in the West Loop for more than a decade

“Pretty much every time you know every time you’re out walking, you see somebody that you know,” she said.

CAUGHT ON CAMERA: Woman dragged during violent car theft in West Loop

For Pearlman, the West Loop is unique community that those at the presentation want to preserve and protect.

“The recent crimes and attempted abductions, I think everybody’s just on edge here and we’re just looking for answers,” Pearlman said.

VIDEO: Woman escapes attempted kidnapping in West Loop

The West Loop Community Organization partnered with Chicago police to host a street safety presentation for neighbors Tuesday night.

“Reality-based situations, so that you can be aware and really understand the ins and outs of what might happen,” explained Julie Darling, WLCO board member.

Darling said the presentation one of many resources WLCO has offered to people. WLCO also partnered with POW Gym Chicago, to sponsor self-defense classes to those who pre-register.

READ MORE: Restaurant worker injured in West Loop drive-by shooting, police say

“What we really need now is that proactive approach to things like crime and safety enhancements,” she said.

Enhancements that ultimately will not just keep individuals safe, but the West Loop community bonded together in safety.

“You have to look out for each other because unfortunately, we know that these criminals are out on the streets,” Pearlman said.

The upcoming sponsored self-defense classes already filled up, showing a strong interest from neighbors. It is possible more sponsored classes will be available in the future.

Copyright © 2022 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

You May Also Like

Man charged in investigation into woman's death in rural victoria

A man has been charged in an ongoing investigation into a woman’s…

Leaders arrive in Vatican City as the world prepares to farewell Pope Francis

Preparations are under way in Vatican City for the funeral of Pope…

JoJo Siwa DUMPS partner Kath Ebbs at Celebrity Big Brother afterparty – after growing extremely close to Chris Hughes

JoJo Siwa’s partner Kath Ebbs has confirmed their split as they revealed…

‘Étoile’s Luke Kirby And Gideon Glick On Starring In The Palladino’s Ambitious Ballet Series: “This Is Important Stuff. I Think It’s Vital Now.”

Shortly after Luke Kirby and Gideon Glick said “Thank you, and good…