My husband, fellow staff members, and myself have firsthand experienced the growing fear and frustration that comes with being victims of property crime. In Nashville, where we all work in Level 1 Trauma Centers, vehicle crime at hospitals has risen at an unsettling rate. The issue extends beyond the loss of property—it's about the sense of security we've lost, and the subsequent risk the committed healthcare workers, vulnerable patients, and their distressed families are suffering and/or are at risk of suffering. 

Specifically, we're referring to the escalating series of vehicle burglaries, vandalisms, property thefts and even VEHICLE theft at municipal hospitals during night shifts. Some of these criminal acts have been carried out under the threat of a firearm, putting everyone at the hospital in immediate danger. A place of healing and care should not be an arena of fear.

Sadly, Nashville isn't an isolated case. Research from the National Insurance Crime Bureau shows that motor vehicle thefts saw an increase of 9.2% nationwide last year, and we firmly believe that healthcare institutions should be safeguarded.

This was emotionally and financially harsh on us, but we fear more for those who serve the community—nurses, doctors, other healthcare providers. We tirelessly care for the sickest people of our city and we deserve to feel safe while performing our demanding jobs. The people who seek treatment and those accompanying them shouldn't be swamped with anxieties of safety either. 

Our plea is directed to the appropriate Nashville authorities—municipal and civic, police and hospital management. We call for immediate, aggressive action to tackle these crimes. We need increased surveillance, stricter security measures, and a proactive approach to deterrence.

Please join us in advocating for these changes. Your signature can help enforce a layer of protection around those who serve and those who need serving. Together, we can foster a safer Nashville. It's time for our guardians to be guarded. Please, sign this petition today.

Alexis Wilcox, BSN, RN