WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — The Winston-Salem Police Department held a press conference Wednesday after a violent weekend in the area.
Police Chief William Penn shared their plans for combatting crime in the area following the violence throughout the weekend.
So far this year, there have been 40 homicides in the city. Compare that to 33 the same time last year.
Recap of major incidents that happened this weekend:
- Two suspects known to one another were arguing at Reboot Arcade on Thursday, Oct. 12. Christopher Hodges was arrested within 24 hours for firing off shots in the area. No one was injured.
- Shooting on Fanning Oaks Drive on Sunday, Oct. 15 left one person with non-life-threatening injuries.
- A Green Nissan was stolen on Sunday, Oct. 15, and was found by police. Joshua Carter collided with three patrol cars which led to a car chase. Carter tried to run away from the scene and was later arrested.
- Shots were fired at Gatsby's Pub and the suspect left the scene before officers arrived.
- Two suspects were arrested in a homicide on E. Devonshire Street.
Chief Penn said the department is 114 sworn officers short but is working to cover all areas as possible.
There will be a downtown bar patrol that operates on the weekends aiming to protect everyone, directed patrol operating on Burke Street, and will require all officers to make a presence when they can.
Chief Penn said the violent incidents this past weekend were all targeted, but he encourages the public to always say something if they see something.
"You don't have to wait until fists are flying and gunshots ringing before you call the police. If you see an argument that seems to be escalating go ahead and give us a call. The sooner you call, the faster we can get there and address the situation," Chief Penn said.
With Winston-Salem State University's homecoming underway, Penn said the community will see officers out everywhere.
WFMY News 2 reached out to Greensboro Police to inquire about violent crime numbers this year.
As far as homicides are concerned, the city of Greensboro has seen 60, compared to 35 this time last year.
GPD said a violent crime initiative focused on violent offenders and areas experiencing high crime levels between July and September. With that, 167 arrests were made, and 63 guns were taken off the streets.
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