In 2007, 30 people were homicide victims in Newport News, Va., a 50 percent increase over 2006.
Most of the deaths happened in the East End, a predominantly poor, African-American section of town.
Police have said that a culture of “no snitching” has hindered their efforts to arrest suspects in many of the killings.
Residents of East End feel isolated from the rest of the city. With no banks, large grocery stores, dry cleaners, movie theaters or shopping centers, they are forced to leave the area for basic services. This isolation has given many a strong sense of community, a distrust of the motives of the police and city government as well as fear of retaliation if they do come forward with information.
Most of the deaths happened in the East End, a predominantly poor, African-American section of town.
Police have said that a culture of “no snitching” has hindered their efforts to arrest suspects in many of the killings.
Residents of East End feel isolated from the rest of the city. With no banks, large grocery stores, dry cleaners, movie theaters or shopping centers, they are forced to leave the area for basic services. This isolation has given many a strong sense of community, a distrust of the motives of the police and city government as well as fear of retaliation if they do come forward with information.
Travis
19-year-old Travis spends his days watching the street.
Sam's Barbershop
At Sam's Barbershop everyone has an opinion on gangs, no snitching, the police and living in the East End.
Bernard Robinson
Community activist Bernard Robinson explains the East End.
Annistine Patrick
Asnistine Patrick sees the differences between 40 years ago and today.
Community Meeting
Newport News police meet with East End residents.
Gun Buy-Back
As part of their program to make the East End safer, Newport News police buy back guns.
Copyright | Hank Wilson