Letter to the Editor
Sheriff Edward Goods Addresses Gun Violence in Claiborne County
Sheriff Edward Goods addresses the rise of gun violence in Claiborne County, emphasizing the need for community involvement and leadership to combat the issue. He calls for collective action to protect neighborhoods and hold individuals accountable for their actions.
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gun violence in Claiborne County. CLAIBORNE COUNTY, Miss. (VDN) 4 As Sheriff of a small but deeply connected community, I feel compelled to speak on the recent rise in gun violence. What I cant seem to understand is4why cant we all get on the same page?
Throughout my tenure, Ive never hesitated to shine a light on the major players responsible for the gun violence plaguing our streets. But some folks still choose to ignore the truth. Our most recent arrests included three new facesdthat tells me recruitment is happening, and fast.
Community Impact of Gun Violence in Claiborne County
Now let me be clear: we know some parents are doing all they can. But we also know that peer pressure is powerful. In todays world, many of our young men feel like they have to carry a gun just to fit in. That doesnt make it rightdbut it does make it real. And thats why this is no longer just a parenting issuedits a community issue.
The Bible says in Proverbs 22:6 d Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
But what happens when the streets are louder than the home? When the crowd is more influential than the parent?
Role of Community Leaders in Combating Violence
And heres the question I keep asking: Where are the OGs?
Ive seen a few speak updand I thank you. But back in the day, OGs stood tall and protected the community. They didnt let kids run wild, and they didnt sit silent when things got out of control. Some of yall OGs too quiet for me. Youve got influencedso use it. If you can brag about your street history, then step up and help change whats happening in those same streets today.
At what point are we, as a community, going to put our foot down? When will we stop blaming law enforcement and start working together toward real solutions?
Let me be honest: I can name just about every individual in this county whos out here contributing to this madness. My team and I visit their parentsdsome of them four times a monthdto say, Hey, your child is headed down the wrong path. But most of the time, it falls on deaf ears. Thats the part they dont tell youdbecause it doesnt fit the narrative that were profiling or picking on people.
Heres a simple solution: We all know the 20 or so individuals who wait until nightfall to shoot up homes, neighborhoods, or gatherings. If we really care about protecting each other, especially during community events, then we have to be willing to tell them: Stay away.
We know who they are. So do you.
Lets stop pretending. Lets start protecting.
Sheriff Edward Goods
Claiborne County
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