The problem of gun violence in the Benton Harbor area has gotten the attention of the Berrien County Board of Commissioners. Two days after Benton Harbor leaders announced 21 Days of Peace for the community to reflect on the problems caused by recent gun crimes, Berrien County Commissioner Don Meeks said at Thursday’s meeting Prosecutor Steve Pierangeli spoke to the administration committee about stemming the violence.
“He very much is going to prosecute any kind of illegal gun violence or activities, so he’s a strong supporter on that,” Meeks said.
Commissioner Jim Curran said he’s been impressed by the actions of local leaders.
“They’ve got to do something about the gun violence in Benton Harbor, and they’re taking a pretty good initiative,” Curran said. “The 21 day initiative is a good start, and we support it 100% and we told him we would.”
A three-year-old girl who was shot over the weekend while in bed is recovering after surgery to her arm. Benton Harbor Mayor Marcus Muhammad has announced a curfew for those under 18, and Meeks noted Thursday Michigan State Police have already arranged to have more troopers patrolling both the city and the township.
