Experts say getting to the root of teen violence problems in the Valley after the beating death of 16-year-old Preston Lord begins with recognizing the magnitude of the issue and working together with the community to raise awareness.
A panel of mental health experts, educators, politicians and law enforcement officials addressed the spate of teen violence with community members during a town hall meeting Monday night at Chandler-Gilbert Community College Performing Arts Center.
“I share (the community’s) frustration. I share their concern,” Queen Creek Mayor Julia Wheatley said during the discussion. “I want to acknowledge my condolences to the Lord family and to everyone that’s experienced teen violence.”
Wheatly described the violence trend as “a regional issue.” She went on to say the Queen Creek Police Department is “working tirelessly” to resolve Lord’s case, naming it a “top priority.” So far, no arrests have been made in the beating death.
“We’re doing everything we can. We’re providing information as we can,” the mayor told audience members. “As soon as there’s more information that we can offer on the case itself, (Queen Creek Police Department) will be the first to notify the public on that.”