In the wake of a devastating shooting in Stockton that left four dead, including three children, community and faith leaders are up in arms over the allocation of public safety funding. With such a stark contrast between the police budget, which received a hefty $190 million, and just $2 million earmarked for prevention services, it’s hard not to wonder if priorities are misplaced.
During a heartfelt press conference, Patrick Peterson, the father of 14-year-old victim Amari Peterson, shared his unimaginable loss and called for greater awareness about the struggles facing their community. Vice Mayor Jason Lee echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for a fundamental shift in how funds are distributed. His call for action is fueled by the recent closure of the Advance Peace Program, which aimed to reduce gun violence but fell victim to federal budget cuts earlier this year.
Leaders in Stockton are not only calling for more investment in prevention but are also urging residents to come forward with any information regarding the shooting, which investigators have classified as targeted. With San Joaquin County Sheriff Patrick Withrow confirming that at least five weapons were used, the community remains in a state of heightened tension and uncertainty. The push for a reallocation of funds reflects not just frustration but a deeper desire for lasting change—a crucial step towards ensuring the safety of their children and neighbors. In a world where safety should be the norm, why is it so hard to secure it?
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Andrew Johnson
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