Jan 30, 2009 7:34 am US/Eastern
Guardian Angels Patrol Coatesville Streets
COATESVILLE, Pa. (CBS 3) ―
As investigators search for suspects in the arson spree that is terrorizing Coatesville, members of the Guardian Angels are now patrolling the city's streets.
Residents are thankful for the extra manpower as the intense manhunt continues for a possible serial arsonist.
Investigators are probing at least 15 arson fires in the month of January alone, including one that damaged 15 row homes on January 24.
Nine members of the Guardian Angels from Philadelphia and New York patrolled the streets for the first time Thursday night.
"When we're out in these red jackets and red berets that we have been wearing for the last 30 years, it's a recognizable uniform and when people see us, they know it's not the place to do anything illegal," Scott Gallagher said.
Gallagher said the group came because of repeated requests from residents who want to generate a town-watch style organization. Gallagher added it is not known how long the group will be in Coatesville.
Since the arson targets seem to be chosen at random, officials are having difficulty narrowing in on suspects. Residents are urged to keep their exterior lights on during the night hours to provide light to hopefully spot any wrongdoers.
City officials have issued new regulations to Coatesville residents after a suspicious fire broke out Monday evening. It is now required that residents remove all debris, such as furniture and trash, from outside their homes or they could face possible fines.
No arrests have been made in connection with the recent fires. The reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction now stands at $17,000.
If you have information call:
Citizen's Crime Commission: 215-546-TIPS
Crime Stoppers: 800-4PA-TIPS
Police Patrol Supervisor: 610-636-0514
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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