Oct 27, 2007 3:41 pm US/Eastern
Liberty City Yearns For Change
LIBERTY CITY (CBS4) ―
Many people who live in Liberty City feel the judicial system is broken. One community leader said until neighbors find a way to trust and connect with officials trying to stop crime, the area will never know peace.
Only a child, Jaylin Poole knows the sounds of gunshots all too well.
He knows the little five-year-old boy Alonzo Anderson, who was recently shot while walking down the street in his neighborhood.
Some say children are like little men. They grow up in a neighborhood where violence surrounds them, and where many people have lost faith in police, in prosecutors and the system.
"The system doesn't work," said Liberty City resident Renda Poole.
Jaylin's mother, Renda, said people in Liberty City are afraid to come forward, especially when many criminals end up on the streets again soon after they're arrested. She said the culture in this neighborhood teaches you not to tell on anyone.
"There should be a lot of people coming out and telling what's going on but they're scared," she added.
Pastor Anthony Dawkins wants to change that sentiment.
"I believe people will believe in the system if the system engages the community."
He is asking state lawmakers to create a citizens' panel in Liberty City that would connect the community with police and the state attorney's office.
The panel would actively weed out criminals, and help get information to police.
He added, "To make sure these people are prosecuted and indicted when they engage in violent crimes and drugs and gangs in our community."
Renda believes a panel could work and hopes it happens for herself, her neighborhood, and her son.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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