Abschnitt 41

Tucked away in the vibrant heart of Schöneberg, you’ll find Abschnitt 41. This isn’t just any police station. It’s a small precinct with a big story. Abschnitt 41 covers a mere 3.16 square kilometers, making it the smallest police precinct in all of Berlin. Yet, within this compact area, it serves a population of approximately 62,000 residents. Abschnitt 41 is nestled within Schöneberg Nord. It’s a dynamic neighborhood brimming with a diverse array of shops, restaurants, arcades, and nightclubs. This area pulsates with life, drawing both locals and tourists alike. A key attraction within Abschnitt 41’s jurisdiction is Wittenbergplatz and Tauentzienstraße. This bustling area is home to the iconic KaDeWe department store and forms part of Berlin’s renowned shopping street, Kurfürstendamm, often referred to as “Ku’damm.” Abschnitt 41 also holds a unique distinction. It encompasses Europe’s largest continuous homosexual scene. This vibrant community has flourished since the early 1980s. Its influence extends far beyond Germany’s borders. The annual “Schwul-Lesbisches Straßenfest” (Gay-Lesbian Street Festival) is a testament to this community’s energy, attracting up to 500,000 people each year. Historically, the Kurfürstenstraße/Potsdamer Straße area within Abschnitt 41 faced challenges with prostitution and drug-related crime. To address these issues, Abschnitt 41 took a proactive approach. In October 1997, they established the Präventions- und Ermittlungsteam (PE/Team), or Prevention and Investigation Team. This specialized unit focuses on community-oriented crime prevention. They engage in direct outreach, fostering dialogue and collaboration with residents, businesses, aid organizations, and the homosexual community. Their goal is to build trust and create a safer environment for everyone within Abschnitt 41.