Following three recent shootings in Rockville City, the police chief, mayor and members of council want residents to know their safety is a top priority and that police actively patrol the community.
In two of the shootings, police arrested suspects quickly and confiscated weapons, noted Chief Jason West, who urged residents to call police immediately if something looks suspicious.
“If you see something, please call the police right away. Our goal is prevention,” West said.
Mayor Monique Ashton, speaking on behalf of herself and city councilmembers, said, “We understand the recent acts of violence in our community have left many feeling unsettled. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families and everyone involved.”
In a statement sent to MCM, Ashton wrote, “We, along with the Rockville City Police Department, want to reassure the community that their safety is our priority. The department is increasing patrols and taking a comprehensive approach to public safety in order to enhance efforts to reduce and prevent crime.”
The statement continued, “We ask everyone to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and look out for one another.”
They are charged with attempted first-degree murder, first-degree assault, second-degree assault, reckless endangerment and various firearms violations.
In a third incident, an adult male was found dead of an apparent gunshot wound on June 14. That case remains under investigation. It occurred at an apartment in the 600 block of Blandford Street in Rockville. Police went there following a request for a welfare check. They located a victim, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
West does not believe the incidents are related.
“We have no information right now, or any belief, that these are related in any way.”
West stressed he was pleased his officers made “quick arrests” and recovered weapons shortly after the shootings.
In one incident, shifts were changing, and there were actually two shifts of officers patrolling that area, West said.
“We have all of our patrol officers always patrolling proactively,” he added. “We want our community to know our police officers are very responsive.”
Ashton added, “Together, we can maintain the safe and inclusive community that Rockville has always strived to be.”
