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Council, police and DA discuss 0-tolerance strategy for felons with guns as Anne Street park nears opening
Summary
Councilmembers raised safety concerns ahead of the January park opening on Anne Street; the police chief and representatives from the district attorney’s office described a coordinated approach emphasizing arrests and prosecution of convicted felons who possess firearms, expanded camera use and community mentorship.
Council members and residents urged a coordinated response to recent gunfire in District 5 as the city prepares to open a new neighborhood park on Anne Street. Council members said parents are reluctant to let children use the park while gunfire and weapons-related activity continue near the site.
The police chief described a recent meeting with the district attorney’s office and said the DA’s office committed to a "zero-tolerance" stance aimed at prosecuting convicted felons found in possession of firearms. The chief said that prosecutors will press judges to impose tougher sentences — including labor or prison time rather than quick bonds — for repeat offenders, and that the city has already increased arrests of felons in possession in recent weeks.
Technology and enforcement were presented as complementary strategies. Officers noted the city’s new camera system will be useful for evidence collection and that the camera contract allows adding microphones and gunshot-detection sensors that can speed identification of incidents. The chief said patrols will be increased around the park and adjacent blocks as the opening approaches and asked residents to report suspicious activity and to use the new system for submitting footage while protecting their safety.
Council members and the chief also emphasized community-based responses: expanding mentoring programs (including a program led by Stanley Small), more door-to-door outreach, volunteer patrols and local leaders’ direct involvement with youth. Council members urged that mentoring be led by volunteers who are not seeking media attention and suggested partnering with schools to enroll children in mentoring where appropriate.
Why it matters: The park is a city investment intended to provide safe recreational space; council members and the chief said a combined strategy of enforcement, camera evidence and community engagement is necessary to give residents confidence to use the park and to reduce repeat gun crimes.
No formal policy or ordinance was adopted at the meeting; the DA’s office commitment and increased arrest emphasis were described as prosecutorial priorities communicated to the council and police.
