NEWBURGH – On Saturday night, May 3, more than 38 gunshots rang out in the City of Newburgh. The total number of gunshots that weekend was more than 55.
Police said in recent months, calls for service related to shots fire rose by 63 percent.
As a result of the spike in gunfire, the Newburgh Police are cracking down in a joint effort with State Police, Orange County Sheriff’s and District Attorney’s office, and the FBI Hudson Valley Safe Streets Task Force, said City Police Officer in Charge Lt. Kevin Lahar.
“Our intention is to target the low level, quality of life offenses, open-air drug dealing and some of those other things that may be a contributing factor to our surge in gun violence,” he said. “There is going to be an increased number of road patrols and a few other things as part of our full initiative.”
In addition to gun violence, city officials have been receiving several complaints and concerns from residents reporting large groups loitering in neighborhoods that are hindering the quality of life for residents and contributing to the increased gun violence-related calls for service.
NEWS STORY PROVIDED BY: Mid Hudson News - www.midhudsonnews.com