Editorial written by the Item Editorial Board
The Lynn Police Department has seen no shortage of work in the last few weeks, to say the least.
On Sept. 2, police responded to a shooting on Essex Street that left two dead and five injured. Later that same day, they responded to yet another shooting that left one man dead on Lincoln Street. Three days later, police arrested two suspects allegedly involved in a carjacking incident after the suspects led them on a brief pursuit before crashing into another vehicle. The next day, Sept. 6, they took three juveniles into custody in connection with an alleged assault and robbery with a machete.
And most recently, Lynn police investigated a shooting at Commercial Street and Neptune Boulevard last Wednesday, culminating in the immediate arrest of one suspect and a coordinated search for a second suspect that ended Monday with his arrest by state police.
We commend the Lynn Police Department, which has responded to 26 shots-fired incidents and seized 36 firearms this year, for its swift and professional responses in each of these instances. We thank Lynn officers for their commitment to public safety, especially in the face of increasingly frequent incidents of gun violence.
As Police Chief Chris Reddy said, “Although gun violence is a national problem, the impact is felt most significantly on a local level.”
We are especially grateful for the extra precaution taken around the schools in the area last Wednesday, as officers kept administrators updated on the situation and remained in the area during dismissals.
Not only has the department continually ensured the safety of residents, but Chief Reddy also took the time to address community concerns at a gun violence forum held on Friday.
He reassured residents that the department has increased patrols at the city’s schools during arrivals and dismissals, and that the city is working on bringing the perpetrators of recent crimes to justice.
Without the Police Department’s exceptional response times, communication and coordination with other city and state departments, and admirable work ethic of its officers, our city would be a much different place.
Our officers face more uncertainty now than ever. We acknowledge their bravery and sacrifice in putting their lives on the line and are fortunate to have a police force that is committed to working with the community to be part of the solution in ending violent crime in Lynn.
