Las Vegas police hold “peace march” to curb crime in the valley

LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — After a spike in crime in the Spring Valley area of ​​Las Vegas, local leaders, including Clark County commissioners, Las Vegas city councilors and local police representatives came together with residents to deliver a message of hope and unity during a peace march.

The celebration of togetherness, which began at Clark High School and ended at Cashman Park, drew dozens of residents from their homes to meet, share ideas and strengthen relationships with local lawmakers and first responders.

“I think it's a change. It's a movement that's happening right now. I think it takes time. It's not enough to come out here once and take a walk, you have to do it all the time and show the community that we're here, law enforcement, all the resources. We're going to show up, we're going to show up and we just want to support everyone,” said Aganda Johnson, a social worker in Clark County.

According to Las Vegas Metro Police, Thursday night's Unity in Community Peace Walk was an effort to reduce crime after a spike was seen throughout the Spring Valley area.

“Some of the challenges would probably be absences from school. How can we help these youth find something to do after school? We have some after-school programs here that we can use to occupy the kids' time so they don't get involved in something that could lead to violence in the community,” said Captain Katie Geiger of the LVMPD Spring Valley Area Command.

As local politicians, police and community volunteers knocked on doors and distributed relief supplies such as food, clothing and other essentials, some neighbors said the community is pulling together in times of need.

“I think it's a great idea. There are a lot of underprivileged children and adults here, so it's great to bring them all here at once and try to provide them with the resources they need,” said Vanessa Equihua, a Las Vegas resident.

Local leaders like Tick Segerblom, chairman of the Clark County Commission, say events like the Unity in Community Peace Walk not only help local leaders give back, but also better understand the needs of their constituents.

“When you walk around and someone asks, 'What about that street light? Or 'What about that street light here? Or 'See that pothole over there?' So when you actually go out into the neighborhood, you realize what the government is doing or not doing, and that's what's so important to me. I really want to make sure the government is helping,” said Tick Segerblom, chairman of the Clark County Commission.

Organizers say they hope to hold similar events soon to improve networking and support other communities across the valley.