This may sound strange, but throw a neighborhood block party. Do anything to bring the sense of community back. When neighbors know each other and are friendlier, they also tend to be much more aware when things are amiss. If the neighborhood becomes tougher to commit crimes in, the criminals will go elsewhere.
Find out which police officers patrol the neighborhood or live in the neighborhood. Make sure they are invited to the block party(not in uniform). It could help them feel a sense of duty to that neighborhood when they know the residents. I think this could help you as well. You rent properties correct? The neighborhood could see you in a good light when they see you are trying to help. Phlgirl, I've never tried this before myself, so please keep that in mind. Merely a suggestion. I don't think it would hurt though.
Find out which police officers patrol the neighborhood or live in the neighborhood. Make sure they are invited to the block party(not in uniform). It could help them feel a sense of duty to that neighborhood when they know the residents. I think this could help you as well. You rent properties correct? The neighborhood could see you in a good light when they see you are trying to help. Phlgirl, I've never tried this before myself, so please keep that in mind. Merely a suggestion. I don't think it would hurt though.