A housing complex in Yonkers that was once a hotbed for drugs, gangs and crime may now be safer, thanks to new security measures.

The William A. Schlobaum houses, often called Schroeder Street, now have new security fencing, an ID system, and Yonkers police officers on duty to help keep the criminal element out.

The security systems were put into action to make the area safer for residents, but not everyone is thrilled with the new surroundings. Some feel that the new system does more than keep criminals out- it keeps them in as well.

?We as the people who live here should not be treated like we?re in prison,? resident Donna Brockman said.

Police Commissioner Edmund Hartnett said that the most crime occurring at the complex was committed by people who do not live there.

?By limiting the access to folks that are coming into Schlobaum to do bad things, to commit crime, to engage in drug dealing or drug buying, we think that?s going to help a lot,? Hartnett said.

Hartnett also hopes the new security system will give residents the confidence to come forward with information that will reduce crime overall.

For an interview about the new security, go to channel 612 on your digital iO cable box and select iO Extra.