Deveon Williams | Chicago Police Department
Deveon Williams | Chicago Police Department
Deveon Williams, 19, was one of nine arrested over the past weekend for engaging in mob violence that wracked areas of Chicago.
Williams was arrested for obstructing an officer on Saturday, April 15 at 1 S. State St. in Chicago.
“The Chicago Police Department's top priority is the safety and wellbeing of our residents and visitors, including our city's youth. The reckless, disruptive and violent behavior that was seen downtown this past weekend will not be tolerated. We encourage our young people to be safe and responsible as they enjoy their weekends, but anyone engaged in criminal activity will be arrested and held accountable,” CPD said in the statement, according to ABC7 Chicago.
Williams was just one of the many teenagers who descended on the Chicago Loop over the weekend. Up to 1,000 teenagers descended on several neighborhoods in Chicago, burnt cars, broke windows, and assaulted people. During the two days of mob violence, three people were shot.
The Chicago Police Department also said that they "actively and continuously review open source social media and additional resources will be available to protect those who are visiting, living or working in the areas of large gatherings. The resources will include increased police and command staff visibility at the gatherings within the city. Their Strategic Decision Support Centers (SDSCs) "will also be monitoring all activity and police cameras to assist in the proactive reallocation of resources when necessary.”
The CPD also stated that “Additional security measures such as bag checks at beach entry points and the curfew for minors at Millennium Park will also be in place." They are also "working closely with youth and outreach workers for when these gatherings occur,” according to the statement released by the Chicago Police Department. They strongly encourage teens should be accompanied by their parents or "have them remain under the supervision of a responsible adult." The CPD pledged to remain in touch and work with community organizations and leaders "to provide safe spaces and alternatives for our youth across the city.”