Local law enforcement, political and school leaders came
together Monday in denouncing a recent spike in gang activity and
vowing to address it.
Local law enforcement, political and school leaders came together Monday in denouncing a recent spike in gang activity and vowing to address it.
In a press conference organized by Supervisor Robert Rivas, and on the heels of a shooting death and a range of other violent crimes, an array of officials attended the event and several spoke about their concerns.
Sheriff Darren Thompson opened the speaking event by welcoming the attendees “who share in our concerns about the recent events in our community” and by underscoring how San Benito County historically “has been a very safe community.”
He also announced there will be a “Peace Rally” from 8 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday on the Briggs Building lawn at Fourth and San Benito streets.
“We’d appreciate participation from anyone who has concern about the recent issues,” Thompson said.
The story continues below this video of the press conference:
Next up, Supervisor Margie Barrios thanked Rivas and said leaders would use available resources.
“While we might not be rich in dollars, we are rich in community and rich in folks that want to be part of this effort,” she said.
Rivas called the recent spate of criminal activity “upsetting” and “disturbing.”
“This is not the San Benito County or the Hollister that I grew up in,” Rivas said.
He said leaders will unite behind the idea of a safer county.
“We need to send a strong message we’re not going to stand by and we’re not going to let things get worse,” he said.
County schools Superintendent Mike Sanchez noted how district leaders had met this past weekend to discuss the recent problems and what they can do about them.
“Our effort is to create the best possible environment to all those involved,” he said.
Hollister Councilman Doug Emerson pointed out how the city and county have an intergovernmental committee that has discussed crime matters in the past – and will do so again in light of the gang activity.
And Police Chief Jeff Miller spoke last, reading off a statement with the latest details in the shooting death that occurred early Saturday morning. Miller contended that the 15-year-old suspect in the shooting – which police believe was accidental – had been holding the firearm for a gang member.
“While this was not a gang shooting, this does have a nexus with gang activity,” Miller said.
Look back for video of the press conference.
