Rising crime has Red Bank residents seeing red.

More than 300 frustrated citizens met at Life Springs Worship Center to express their concerns to Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon, Sen. Katrina Shealy, County Council Chairman Scott Whetstone, and Councilman Bobby Keisler.

Organizer Levi Carrigan wanted to know what could be done to reduce crime.

Head of Lexington’s Narcotics Division, Lt. Robbie Lint addressed drug problems, gangs, panhandlers, and homeless encampments in the area.

“In the long term, we’re exploring ways to assist the homeless population by linking them up with organizations that provide assistance,” Capt. Adam Myrick said.

“We’ll continue to patrol the locations as part of our community policing efforts.”

Lt. Lint suggested that businesses file complaints against panhandlers, and property owners need to give their help in enforcing trespassing laws.

Sen. Shealy suggested a solution to the panhandling problem was for people to stop giving them money.

Residents were also upset over the number of break-ins and auto thefts.

Business owner Levi Carrigan encouraged residents to become part of the solution by:

• Communicating with neighbors and community crime watch groups.

• Working with the Sheriff’s Department.

He has created a FaceBook page “Criminal and Drug Activity in Red Bank” to help monitor crime in the area.