Rob Halligan, a 46-year-old resident of the Kalorama neighborhood, is a civic activist who has been deeply involved in the Dupont Circle Neighborhood Watch since its creation nearly two years ago. He worked closely with another member of the community, Sol Levine, to get the program in place, and has served as a liaison to the police department for about six years.
What inspired you to get involved with neighborhood watch?
Well, six years ago, I got involved in policing after I got mugged — someone stuck a gun in my face. Ever since I got involved, I have served as Advisory Neighborhood Commission commissioner and used to be president of the Dupont Circle Citizens Association, which was founded in 1922. It’s one of the bigger, more powerful civic organizations in the city.
Why do you continue to be involved?
It’s just a part of your civic activism. Six years ago, it really seemed like the city was changing. It seemed to be a lot more professional. I was happy to help out. I think the police have some serious momentum toward improving.
Recommended Stories
What types of crime do you typically deal with?
Dupont has a lot of street robbery. People commute in from other areas and stick guns in people’s faces. There’s burglary, people sneaking in behind people into apartment buildings and breaking in. Not too many murders, lots of office thefts. Surprisingly little sexual assault gets reported. The cops, it drives them crazy how many thefts there are. It’s particularly irritating, and it’s probably the same 10 people around the neighborhood doing it and the judges don’t take it seriously.
Have you seen a change in the neighborhood?
Yes. When you think about how much work it takes to make it happen, is it worth it? I don’t know, but it does make a difference.
