CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Clarksville Mayor Joe Pitts is calling on residents to help police prevent and solve homicides and other violent crimes in Clarksville.
“We have already seen 10 homicides so far in 2019,” Mayor Pitts said. “While the Clarksville Police Department has been effective in solving many of these crimes, we need the public’s help to ensure criminals are caught quickly and brought to justice.”
Mayor Pitts met with Clarksville Police officials Friday to analyze crime data. He said in addition to 10 homicides within seven months in 2019, the CPD has already seen 300 cases of aggravated assault.
In comparison, the city saw a total of 15 homicides and 579 aggravated assaults during the entire year of 2018.
In response, the Mayor is urging residents to do what they can to help prevent these crimes. First, anyone who has information about the recent shootings or other crimes should come forward and talk to police. Remember, if you report a tip to police, you can always remain anonymous. Second, residents should lock their vehicles and never leave firearms in vehicles.
Clarksville has also seen an uptick in car burglaries and thefts. Police say between June 1 and July 30, more than 200 Vehicle Burglary incidents and about 115 vehicle thefts were reported.
Mayor Joe Pitts had a close encounter with violent crime last month. While dining with his wife and friends at Longhorn Steakhouse, a deadly double shooting occurred right outside.
"When you're that close to something like that you pay attention more, especially to personal safety," said Pitts.
Pitts said they've also added seven additional police officers in this year's budget. They are currently hiring for those positions.
