STEUBENVILLE - The city is about to step up its campaign against lawbreakers in the wake of recent shootings and other high-profile crimes.
Steubenville Police Chief William McCafferty joined City Manager Cathy Davison and Jefferson County Prosecutor Jane Hanlin in announcing the arrests of two suspects earlier in the week and to deliver a message to those involved in breaking the law during a press conference today on the steps of the City Municipal Building.
McCafferty said those arrested included Darson E. Williams Jr., 37, who was indicted in February on two counts of improperly discharging a firearm into a house and single counts of felonious assault, with a firearm specification, and having a weapon as a convicted felon; and Westley Bowling, 25, of 241 S. Fifth St., who was arrested by City Police and charged with having a weapon as a convicted felon.
"We're working hard on the evidence, and we hope to have more (information on possible charges) in the future," said McCafferty during the press conference.
"This is the beginning of a citywide crackdown," said Hanlin. "We want to send a message that we won't tolerate this here.
"With all of us working together two arrests have been made," said Davison, adding she had a message to deliver to those breaking the law in Steubenville. "If you break the law in our community it will not be tolerated."
Teresa DiCarlantonio, president of the Hilltop Community Development Corp., said while she welcomed the arrests made and the tone of the press conference, the city needs to lead the way to put an end to the crime and violence.
"We need to get aggressive about this problem," said DiCarlantonio. "Our law enforcement needs to make themselves visible. We have a problem up there."
