Gun violence in Lewiston has escalated dramatically, with a staggering 1,750% increase in confirmed shootings over the past 15 years, prompting urgent action from law enforcement. City officials report 35 total shootings in 2024, with residents like Thomas Dunne expressing a palpable sense of fear as gunshots echo weekly in their neighborhoods.
The Lewiston Police Department is responding with increased patrols and community engagement efforts, yet community leaders express concerns over the effectiveness of these measures. Chief David St. Pierre has implemented strategies designed to enhance collaboration between police and citizens, but lingering distrust and reluctance to cooperate from some community members complicate the situation further as they seek solutions to promote safety.
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