Standing beside the Crime Victims Memorial on the Robert F. Stephens Courthouse Plaza, local Christian, Jewish, and Muslim leaders labeled Lexington's increase in violent crime a "spiritual problem" — and one that demands the collective attention of the community.
"Lexington is blessed with all the pieces of the puzzle that we need for this community to achieve."Rabbi Shlomo Litvin
While some held signs calling for action in specific cases, others raised their hands as moments took on the air of a worship service.
Violent crime has become a central issue in the upcoming mayoral and council races, as the community debates whether to stay the course with the city's current anti-violence programs or opt for different approaches.
BUILD, a massive coalition of area churches, continues to champion a national program called Group Violence Intervention — while Mayor Gorton and Police Chief Lawrence Weathers say the program doesn't have the data to back up its promises.
