Chief Michael Soelberg
The Gilbert chief of police recently announced that any kind of violent behavior will not be tolerated following the attacks of the Gilbert Goons.
On Wednesday, a statement released by the Gilbert Police Department expressed that they are making great efforts to keep teens safe in the East Valley.
Chief Michael Soelberg of the Gilbert Police Department expressed in a statement that he is aware of the fear and anger caused by the recent incidents of teen violence. “We hear and understand the community’s fear and frustration,” he said.
The proclamation mentioned the widely-publicized homicide of Preston Lord, a 16-year-old who was brutally attacked and died at a Halloween celebration in 2023.
The “Gilbert Goons,” a teenage gang, were identified as having a connection to the party held in Queen Creek, according to authorities.
The authorities of both police departments are conducting an inquiry into the matter.
The Queen Creek Police Department reported on the 28th of December that they intend to press charges against seven suspects in connection to their probe of Lord’s murder.
According to Soelberg, the Gilbert Police Department is lending its support to Queen Creek’s inquiry into the death of Lord.
Preston Lord
The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office is being awaited for a response by both departments.
Soelberg noted that the Gilbert Police Department is conducting an exhaustive analysis of past teen violence episodes that have happened over the last two years.
The police chief assured that the department is doing everything in its power to ensure the safety of its members, particularly the youth. He continued to say that the Gilbert PD will keep up its heightened surveillance of places that are popular hangouts for adolescents. He stated that violence is not accepted in this community.
It can be anticipated that there will be a heightened number of law enforcement personnel present in the areas of shopping centers and the downtown heritage district.
The Gilbert Police Department encouraged anyone with knowledge that could be useful to contact them at 480-503-6500 or to use the online tip site located here.
