Willravel

Recently, we've had some issues with drug dealers and dice throwers around my work building. As the resident "solution to everything guy", I was put in charge of dealing with the problem.

Not 20 minutes ago, we had a group of maybe 10-12 young people throwing dice in front of my business with large wads of cash in hand. My response was to simply walk out there, give them a friendly look and most left. One decided to be confrontational as he said something under his breath and didn't leave. I turned towards him, gave him a respectful smile and made strong eye contact. He gave me a few weak profanities and caught up to the group, which had simply moved down the block a building.

I'm trying to decide what the best course of action would be with this type of situation. Obviously, if they're dealing drugs the prudent response is to call the police, especially considering that they're not just selling bud anymore, and have graduated to crack. With the people who are just essentially loitering, I think calling the cops would not only be overkill, but it would invite a response. Judging by the confrontational nature of the alpha-person, I get the impression it could invite vandalism (as we've had in the past) or worse: violence. I'd rather have a situation where we can part ways amicably. Instead of inviting escalation, I want to present a situation where they leave feeling comfortable. My first thought went to positive reinforcement, but that's difficult without seeming condescending. Offering to buy them all lunch was the first thing that came into my mind, as there's a McDonald's right across the street.

Anyone have any ideas? I'll call the cops if necessary, but I like being able to solve these thins myself.