That's a crappy position to be in Inky....so sorry you are feeling this way and for what happened.
You say you know the businesses don't have a problem with you being there at night.....maybe you could get letters from the owners saying they have no problems with you being there and appreciate that you could be looking out for their businesses while you are there?? If that won't work, how about if they might be willing to call the PD and tell them they are ok with you being there? Just a thought...don't know if it's feasible or not.

sabby