GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Grand Rapids Police Department is taking additional action to curb gun violence following an increase in gun-related crime throughout the city.
The department is increasing the number of officers in neighborhoods, according to GRPD this afternoon.
Officers will communicate with civilians and gather intel regarding those behind the recent surge in violence.
They'll focus on illegal guns and violent crime, as well as reckless driving and disorderly groups.
The response is "driven by" the department's draft three-year strategic plan.
“By utilizing our department’s crime analysts and evidence-based enforcement efforts, the neighborhoods most impacted will see an increased presence of officers but will not have to worry about getting caught up in a wide net,” GRPD Chief Eric Payne said.
He went on to say that he hopes these measures will prevent violent crimes before they happen.
“Everyone is impacted by it, and every resident should be outraged by it and speak up.”
GRPD said "many victims and witnesses" from last weekend’s incidents are not giving information to detectives.
Those with information regarding the gun violence are encouraged to call GRPD at 616-456-3380 or Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.
