Pittsfield’s mayor is echoing a message from the city’s police chief that the community must be open about the existence of gangs in the wake of recent violence.At a recent community meeting Pittsfield Police Chief Michael Wynn said incidents over the past month, including two shootings, appear to be gang-related. Wynn emphasized that it is no secret Pittsfield has gangs. About five months into her term, Mayor Linda Tyer agrees.
“When we take an honest look at those challenges that’s when we can begin building solutions,” Tyer said. “It does not serve us well to be in denial about the seriousness of this situation.”
Without releasing specifics, Tyer says law enforcement is a top priority in her review of the upcoming city budget. She says the police force is understaffed and underequipped.
