Hempstead officials announced that a special Anti-Crime Task force created to target crime in the area has resulted in the seizure of guns and weapons.

In May, the Village of Hempstead started a special Anti-Crime Task Force to concentrate on the downtown area around the bus and train station.

The department began using officers on bikes, and the unique patrol had an impact on criminal behavior in the area, officials say.

The village announced the specialized unit has made 154 arrests, issued over 400 appearance tickets, and seized tens of thousands of dollars in narcotics. The unit has also made several illegal gun and drug seizures.

On Tuesday in the parking lot next to the bus station, police officials said the team made its biggest bust yet.

"In addition to a loaded handgun, the arrested subject was in possession of quantities of heroin Fentanyl and crack cocaine with an estimated street value of $35,000," said Hempstead Village Police Asst. Chief Kevin Colgan

Mayor Waylyn Hobbs said improving the quality of life in downtown will hopefully help revitalize the area and encourage investment.

"We want developers we want the community to know that Hempstead is a safe place to come, be entertained, to eat and just have fun," Hobbs said.

Village officials said that more police on the street, including the bike officers, have been so successful that they are going to be adding more bike patrols in the future.

Residents said they have noticed a change the community, citing less people loitering and said they feel safer.

Hempstead police said one of their officers has also received his national bike patrol certification, which will allow him to train officers at other departments as well.