Video: Shooting Leads To Major Changes At Columbus Parks, Police Substations, And Community Meetings Set

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) – After last Friday’s shooting at Sim Scott Park, Columbus leaders are making some big changes to help prevent crime.

Townsend and Sim Scott Parks, along with East Columbus will now be open from 6 A.M. until 7 P.M.

Columbus police will reopen the substations at Sim Scott and Townsend, at least three days a week.

Columbus Police Chief Tony Carleton says patrols on foot and in police cars will continue.

Mayor Robert Smith says the entire community, including churches, schools, and elected leaders must work together to help prevent crime. He says parents also play a key role.

“If you are having a problem with your child, don’t depend on Columbus police department to take care of your problem, the church or the schools. It’s your responsibility, that’s your child. So, parents are going to have to become more involved,” said Smith.

In an effort to build a better relationship with residents in some of the areas, three community meetings will be held over the next several weeks.

Here is a schedule of the community meetings: Sim Scott Park, March 30th, 6 P.M.

East Columbus Gym, April 6th, 6 P.M.

Townsend Community Center, April 13th, 6 P.M.

Smith and Carleton said the meetings are designed to allow residents feel comfortable with police, possibly create neighborhood watch programs, and giving people numbers they can call.

“If they feel like there’s any kind of retaliation against them for telling on someone, we’ll certainly want to make them comfortable with who they can call,” said Carleton.