GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.- It was a violent end to 2012 in Grand Rapids, with 2013 kicking off with more. However, battling possible gang activity and other crime, extends across West Michigan. On Thursday, Pat Miles, U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan held a joint “Violent Crimes” presser with federal, state and other local law enforcement agencies to reaffirm their commitment.
“In communities, neighbors who are tired of violence , tired of having their children hear gunshots in the evenings, tired of having their kids walk to school and fearing for their lives need to know that we are going to do as much as we can about it.” U.S. Attorney Miles said.
Task forces have been formed not only on the local level, but federal level, too. Tips from the community through Silent Observer are one of the biggest keys to solving these crimes, he expressed.
“If they know who the bad apples are in their neighborhoods they should reach out to their local law enforcement.” Miles added.
Jeffrey Hertel, GRPD Commander of Investigations, said the past two weeks have been quiet for the city. He credits “Stop the Violence” meetings being held, the cold weather and word of arrests circulating on the streets. The assumption by many, is that gangs have been involved or behind much of the crime.
“Certainly the people that we have been talking to and there’s been investigative subpoenas on, have been involved in gang activity.” Hertel said.
The public needs to be reassured that Silent Observer is 100 percent anonymous. You can call it anytime at (616) 774-2345 for tips that might lead to an arrest or conviction.
