Law enforcement and government officials discuss violent crime strategy efforts in the Cape Fear

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Several local and federal law enforcement agencies gathered in Wilmington on Monday to talk about fighting violent crimes in the Cape Fear.

U.S. Attorney Michael Easley, District Attorney Ben David, Wilmington Police Chief Donny Williams, and ATF Special Agent Bennie Mims spoke at WPD Headquarters on the current violent crime strategy.  One thing District Attorney Ben David wants to crack down on is gun violence.

“Our priority has always been gun crime and violent crime in general. Last year, we had 48 shootings in Wilmington, this year its 61. That’s a disturbing trend,” said David.

Since the beginning of last year, a team of prosecutors and investigators have collaborated to identify, charge and arrest those contributing to violent crime in Wilmington and surrounding areas. That has led to 37 federal indictments and 41 guns seized.

Police have seen more minors possessing firearms, one as young as 14. Its something WPD Police Chief Donny Williams wants to see change.

“I want to urge parents, talk with your kids about the importance of staying safe and not possessing guns. Minors under the age of 18 are not allowed to possess firearms in the city limits. If you engage with illegal criminal activity to include gun crime, narcotics or other destructive behaviors, and I’ve said this before, we will bend over backwards to arrest you.”

And you can help in many different ways.

“The vast majority of these gun crimes that we’re up here talking about right now involves stolen fire arms. So, we need your help if you’re a responsible gun owner of locking up your stuff. So, if you don’t want to get involved with a 911 call, text-a-tip. That’s an anonymous way of doing that,” said David.