I just looked at the video of the interview with Mr. Salamone on News12 LI's site. http://www.news12.com/LI/topstories/article?id=162735#
There have been a lot more than 18 of these things. Makes the story clearer, but it's too close to home.
I understand completely. I have gang safe houses in my neighborhood too.
There was a hostage (hoax) incident in New Brunswick not too long ago. thread here. The gangs were out in such mass, we had police from at least five other towns in New Brunswick to help with crowd control. Bringing my dog with me was the ONLY way I was able to get through to pick up my kids from school.
I am very tempted to give my doggy some more treats. But DLR warned me of slowing her down with snacks.