Loveless commended the proactive response from the landlord, Rick Whealen, and the dedication of officers like Lt Plourde, stating, “Lt. Plourde constantly walks the beat and always makes a point to pop into the store to ensure all is well. His ‘feet on the street’ approach is a crucial part of our community’s safety.”
Loveless described the escalating issues at the Sudley Road shopping center in early to mid-2023: “Some regular panhandlers made this their shopping center of choice and worked the patrons as they parked.”
“They became so brazen they would even work the cars that were in line at the Starbucks drive-through,” stated Loveless.
Further complications arose with small groups engaging in coordinated shoplifting and grab-and-run incidents, including targeting business tip jars. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the landlord took proactive steps to involve the Manassas City Police Department.
Police intervention included organized meetings for all shop owners, educating them on effective incident reporting methods. Loveless highlighted the impact of increased police presence.
“This, along with a stronger police presence both in patrol vehicles and patrolman walk-throughs, has abated the problems about 90%,” said Loveless.
Manassas Acting City Manager Douglass Keen, who served as police chief until taking the interim role last fall, expressed gratitude for the positive feedback, noting, “Kenny, thanks for the positive feedback,” wrote Keen.
Canterbury Village has 20 stores and restaurants. In 2023, Gov. Glenn Youngkin and The Fox News Channel visited Jukebox Diner twice.
Tang’s Alterations has been a fixture at Canterbury Village since 1999.
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