Middletown resident says house was hit by ‘over 50 gunshots,’ urges cameras and patrols

Karen Dupee told the Middletown City Council that her home was struck by “over 50 gunshots” and urged the city to take immediate steps to improve safety in the South End. “This request is not hypothetical,” Dupee said, asking for visible, high‑quality surveillance cameras in high‑risk areas, increased overnight patrol visibility, and ongoing evaluation of crime data to ensure equitable resource distribution.

Councilmembers responded with sympathy and requests for staff follow‑up. Councilmember West said the council is about 30 days away from a strategic planning retreat and asked police and staff to prepare options — including camera systems used in other cities — that could be presented for consideration. “Our police do a phenomenal job,” West said, “but they can't be on every corner every single night.”

Councilmember Mulligan and others said they would consider short‑term measures and supplemental appropriations if needed to support public safety and neighborhood rebuilding. City Manager Ashley Combs did not commit to a specific procurement at the meeting but noted staff would review options and follow up.

Dupee framed the request as a prevention strategy: cameras, she said, act as a deterrent and provide evidence to protect residents and law enforcement. Council members asked staff to prepare recommendations in advance of the strategy retreat so the body could review potential financial implications and timelines.

The meeting record shows no formal vote on surveillance installation; the council directed staff to develop and present options for consideration.