a neighborhood being 'held hostage' to fear [=a neighborhood controlled or dominated by fear]
The terrorists demanded a plane and a pilot in exchange for the 'hostages'.
The 'hostage' crisis is now entering its second week.
(..) Like that one. You just solved the entire case and revolutionised police training. I have studied human character, terrorist psyche, fingerprints. I have taken courses in surveillance, hostage negotiation and psychology. And all I had to do was drive around the neighbourhood - Trying to be funny? (..)1993 Last Action Hero
(..) - Mulcahey! - Sir. I have a present for you! Pigs! Let the children go! Damn you, Ripper! Slater!! Do no even think it, Slater. Wait for the hostage negotiator. Goddamn it, Jack, I am talking to you! The last time you pulled this jive, jitterbug, tough gonad shit - - people lost bodyparts! (..)1993 Last Action Hero