Salt Lake City Police Chief Mike Brown pleads for a solution on gun violence

SALT LAKE CITY — In wake of Monday evening’s shooting in Salt Lake City that left one person dead, Salt Lake City Police Chief Mike Brown is pleading for a solution to gun violence in the city.

Salt Lake City gun violence

“There have been about 30 robberies, which a firearm was used,” Brown said.

“There have been nearly 60 aggravated assaults with a firearm, and there have been more than 28 drive-by shootings in our city since January 1st,” Brown added. 

Brown said guns are being sold and stolen at an increasing rate and falling into the hands of the wrong people.

“In the last two years, more guns have been sold in this city and across the country than in recent history,” he said. “More guns sold; more guns stolen in burglaries. (And) more guns in the hands of people who shouldn’t have them.”

Gun crimes go up in the summer months, according to Brown. To that end, Brown said his department is placing officers in more strategic areas to help crack down on the gun violence.

But as the summer months draw closer, Brown has one request for the public.

“This summer, I have one ask of our community, and that is to help us” he said. “We need everyone in our community to help us prevent further gun violence.”

Brown said reporting potential gun violence or calling in tips can assist the police. He also said that he supports raising the age limit to when an individual can purchase a gun.

Mark Jones contributed to this article.

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