CHARLESTON, SC (WCSC) - Police are cracking down on crime in the Eastside community of Charleston. On Monday 14 suspected drug dealers were charged in Federal Court. The suspected gang is accused of selling crack cocaine, heroin and marijuana. authorities say the suspected dealers were pushing drugs on ducs court as well as Hanover, Columbus and meeting streets.

Residents in the area say police have made a bigger presence in the area over the past year.

"Police are getting out, shaking hands, and getting to know neighbors in the community. It makes neighbors more comfortable," says Pam Zaresk of Eastside Community Development. Zaresk volunteers for the organization which helps organize events to help keep the neighborhood looking clean.

Others say the influx of younger people moving into the homes and renovating them helps brighten the look of the area.

"A lot of houses have been renovated. They have appeal from the street. neighborhoods in general have a lot more pride. The parks in that area have cleaned up. Trash is not as evident. Instead you see people enjoying being outside," says Eric Draper, a realtor in downtown.

Source: http://www.live5news.com/story/14345023/crime-cleanup-in-eastside-of-charleston

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