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October 1, 2010
Gulfport fighting back
GULFPORT — On Monday, two young men were wounded while standing in a front yard on Maple Court when an angry gunman opened fire, peppering the home with an assault rifle. This week, the City of Gulfport is fighting back.
The victims were treated at a local hospital, and just a few hours later, Gulfport police arrested an 18-year-old, ex-convict and later nabbed two others for their role in the crime.
“I want to commend the Gulfport Police Department for their swift action and I want to thank those residents who helped us apprehend these criminals so quickly,” Mayor George Schloegel said. “This type of violent activity is utterly unacceptable in the City of Gulfport.”
This week’s shooting in Forest Heights was the second in the past month.
“And for anyone who thinks they can get away with these disgraceful acts of evil, you should know that we are coming to get you and we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law,” Mayor Schloegel said.
The penalty for a drive-by shooting is up to 30 years in prison without parole.
“Citizen involvement is critical and we need residents in the neighborhood to report suspicious activity,” Chief Alan Weatherford said. “This makes me sick. We can’t afford to wait. The time for community action is right now.”
The GPD recently formed Project Safe Neighborhood with Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, and Weatherford said the task force plans to vigorously pursue and prosecute the perpetrators of such vicious acts.
Fall Around Downtown
Don’t miss the Gulfport Main Street Association’s Fall Around Downtown this Sunday, featuring a Who Dat block party, hundreds of Cruisin’ the Coast classics, and a live performance by Al “lil fats” Jackson. For more information, click here.
Office of Public Information - rlafontaine@gulfport-ms.gov - Phone: 228-868-5782
P.O. Box 1780 Gulfport, MS 39502-1780 - FAX: 868-5800
