CHANDLER, AZ – Teen violence took center stage at the recent Chandler City Council meeting, with Chandler police providing updates on the Gilbert Goons and a grieving stepmom calling for action in her son’s case. Acting Chandler Police Chief Melissa Deanda assured councilmembers that the department is diligently reviewing previous investigations of attacks involving teenagers, with no direct links found to the Gilbert Goons.
Preston Lord’s stepmom emotionally addressed the public, emphasizing the impact of her son’s tragic death. The 16-year-old was fatally assaulted after a Halloween party in Queen Creek, sparking increased concern about teen violence in the East Valley. Other parents also shared their experiences of teen violence in the area, highlighting the urgent need for prevention and change.
Acting Chief Deanda informed the City Council about Chandler’s involvement in a newly formed group of East Valley law enforcement agencies gathering information on individuals using “gang-style-tactics” to commit crimes. The department has also increased its patrol presence in areas prone to larger gatherings, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring the safety of the community, with zero tolerance for any form of violence.
The meeting coincided with Gilbert police releasing images of individuals allegedly involved in assaults on kids in the East Valley. The department is currently investigating nine cases of teen violence, with four arrests already made in connection to an attack and robbery of a boy in an In-N-Out parking lot. Additionally, a 20-year-old from Gilbert has been arrested for confessing to being associated with the Gilbert Goons.
The Chandler City Council meeting played a crucial role in shedding light on the disturbing trend of teen violence in the East Valley, with law enforcement and community members alike expressing a shared determination to tackle the issue head-on. As the community grapples with the devastating impact of these violent acts, it becomes increasingly evident that swift and decisive action is necessary to protect the youth and prevent further tragedies.