Peoria's Rising Violence: Police Chief, Mayor, and Community Respond

Peoria Police Chief Eric Echevarria and Mayor Rita Ali addressed the recent shootings in Peoria, Illinois, emphasizing the need for parents to take responsibility for their children and urging them to communicate with law enforcement. The city has experienced a surge in gun violence, with several shootings resulting in injuries and fatalities. The police chief vowed to increase police presence in affected neighborhoods and utilize all available resources, including the possibility of federal charges. The mayor highlighted the importance of community involvement in making the city safer. The shootings were not gang-related but involved individuals with personal conflicts. Statistics show an increase in shootings and shooting victims compared to the previous year. The violence has also impacted schools and local businesses. Efforts by the Safety Net group are ongoing but require time to build trust and relationships within the community.