The city combats Halloween-time arson,a deadly local custom
A Deadly Custom
Though Halloween is often associated with mischief of all kinds, in Detroit in the 1970's the tiny acts of vandalism that normally accompany the holiday escalated to more deadly crimes, like arson. In many years, the fires were set on October 30, the night before Halloween, sometimes known as "Devil's Night."Detroit Free Press / AP
Ruined
The fires, which reached a peak in 1984 when over 800 fires were set, were particularly destructive to Detroit's inner-city neighborhoods.Daniel Mears / The Detroit News / AP
Gutted
The problem was compounded by the sinking real estate values in the city. Property owners unable to sell would use Devil's Night as an opportunity to burn down their homes, claim that an arsonist was at fault and collect the insurance money.Carlos Osario / AP
The Battle is Engaged
Beginning in the 1990's, the city made a serious effort to combat the trend. Mayor Dennis Archer renamed October 30 as "Angel's Night" and branches of the Detroit's law enforcement agencies were mustered to patrol the neighborhoods.Paul Warner / AP
Volunteer
At the same time, city residents took to the streets to support the city's effort.Paul Warner / AP
Not Abandoned
Volunteers are asked to adopt a vacant house or commercial building in their neighborhood and watch that building from 6 p.m. to midnight during the three-day Halloween period (October 29-31).Logan Siegel for TIME
Eyes
Signs like this one have been placed on buildings that are regarded as susceptible to arson.Logan Siegel for TIME
Vulnerable
The increased number of abandoned homes in the city has led to a heightened concern for Halloween 2009.Logan Siegel for TIME
