Rev. Talbert Swan says clergy meeting with Springfield (MA) police to help mitigate violent crime

The Republican ^

[matt04]

The Rev. Talbert W. Swan II said he and other local clergy will meet privately with Springfield Police Commissioner William J. Fitchet before a public meeting scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Spring of Hope Church of God in Chist, 35 Alden St.

"We reached out really to see what we, as clergy, can do to reduce some of the violent crime," Swan said, explaining the reason for this evening's meeting with the commissioner.

Swan said the private meeting, which will begin at about 6 p.m., is a chance for religious leaders to see how they can help quell the recent spate of violence in Springfield, which has experienced multiple shootings and two homicides this month alone. The public is invited to attend the 6:30 p.m. session at the church, which is expected to draw Fitchet and other law enforcement officials. The Alden Street church is located in the city's Old Hill neighborhood.

This year's homicide rate is significantly lower than it was one year ago, when Springfield had already logged 14 murders by August and was on track for a total of 19 for the year. Springfield so far this year has logged only eight murders, though this month's sudden spike in gun crimes has concerned both city officials and residents.

"We wanted to see if we could influence some greater cooperation with the (police) department and to mitigate some of the problems we're facing out there," Swan said.

[matt04]

Let me guess, every time the Police try to got after the roving gangs of thugs in Springfield the NAALCP cries Racism, same with prosecution of said thugs.

[max americana]

They need a beer summit’, case closed.