At their January meeting, the focus was on crime – and on how to produce better outcomes for the community.
By Ed James III
Original Air Date: January 23, 2026
Host: The Amaryllis Park neighborhood covers the heart of Newtown, Sarasota’s majority minority area. Ed James III reports about the neighborhood association’s latest meeting.
Ed James III: The start of a new year represents more than just a date on the calendar for the residents of Amaryllis Park; it is an opportunity for community restoration. At the neighborhood association’s January meeting, the agenda focused on restorative justice as the foundation for public safety in 2026. By analyzing how the law is applied—shifting from punitive measures toward restorative dialogue—the neighborhood is working to heal and strengthen its own social fabric.
Looking at crime statistics of the month, a representative from the Sarasota Police Department reported six events in the neighborhood in north Sarasota between December 16 and January 15. This included three aggravated assaults—resulting in one arrest and another case sent to the State Attorney—as well as two burglaries. Officers also clarified a theft on Maple Avenue, confirming it involved an electric bike rather than a car. In the majority of these cases, investigators say suspects have been identified.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to educating neighbors on legal procedures. Officers explained the distinction between a Civil Citation and a Notice to Appear. While a Civil Citation is typically used for minor issues to keep an individual’s record clean, a Notice to Appear serves as a formal order to show up in court. Both function as alternatives to physical arrest, ensuring the legal process moves forward while individuals remain within the community.
Mary Butler
Amaryllis Park Association President Mary Butler emphasized the necessity of this partnership. She told neighborhood residents: “Justice isn’t just about an arrest; it’s about the rapport we build. We must work hand-in-hand with law enforcement so that every citation and every court appearance is a step toward a safer, more equitable Amaryllis Park for our children.”
The Amaryllis Park Neighborhood Association meets on the fourth Tuesday every month at 7:00 PM at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex. The address: 1845 John Rivers Street in north Sarasota. Residents are encouraged to attend, to stay informed and help lead the community forward.
Updating the community, I’m Ed James III for WSLR News.
WSLR News aims to keep the local community informed with our 1/2 hour local news show, quarterly newspaper and social media feeds. The local news broadcast airs on Wednesdays and Fridays at 6pm.