Moorhead’s police chief said he is spending the first week of the new year attempting to curb several types of crimes in the small town, including shooting incidents that have frequented the area around the Double Quick store.
To be transparent, Chief Joseph Wilson stated to The Enterprise-Tocsin that he wants to inform the citizens of Moorhead of his goals for the new year.
"As we kick off this new year, I want to encourage the citizens to help me prevent crime by keeping down the loitering in the area across from Double Quick," stated Wilson.
Wilson continued, "I am not trying to keep people from socializing, but I am trying to enforce the city's ordinance of no loitering on city property. I am trying to deter drinking, driving, and drug use."
The city is not only faced with drug use but also vehicle theft, he said.
"I will add officers focusing on DUI enforcement, vehicle theft, and deter shootings in the coming months," added Wilson. "I want to respect citizens' 2nd Amendment right to carry a gun legally."
Change is not easy, but necessary, Wilson said.
"Let's commit to making Moorhead a great place to live. As we know, Moorhead has a rich history of education, the birth of the blues, and fighting for civil rights. I am asking every citizen to help me move Moorhead forward. Let's move forward together, explained Wilson.
Wilson stated reiterated that he desires to be transparent. He wants every citizen to be safe, especially the children and elderly.
"I want you to know my focus as I move Moorhead forward with safety and protecting all citizens," stated Wilson
"Additionally, the police department will monitor backpacks worn after school hours. Please be aware that some are carrying illegal weapons. Again, Officers will be monitoring individuals carrying backpacks," affirmed Wilson.
Wilson stated that he is moving in the direction of keeping the streets safe where citizens can come out of their homes without the fear of gun violence, drugs, and theft.
Finally, Wilson thanked the citizens for their continued support, and he looks forward to a prosperous new year where everyone can flourish.
"I want the elderly to live peacefully and our youth to grow. Together, we can make a difference," shared Wilson. I thank the citizens of Moorhead for responding to the call for restoration."
