Chattanooga Crime Up, Faith-Based Initiatives Down

CHATTANOOGA, TN (WDEF) – As soon as graphic images hit the airwaves in 2012, churches from all over, backed Keoshia Ford, 13.

Keoshia was caught in the crossfire of a gang-related shooting.

To this day, the bullet is still lodged behind her ear.

However, since then the faith-based initiatives to combat violence in Chattanooga have slowed down, even though crime statistics are on the rise.

Pastor Tim Sykes with Pilgrim Rock Missionary Baptist Church, says, "Seemingly, no one wants to volunteer anymore. Everybody wants to get paid, somebody wants to be recognized and get a pat on the back. And it’s good to recognize people for doing something, but the true commitment comes from your heart." 

Sykes says there are areas where churches can improve.

According to Sykes, "Going out, and doing more outside the walls. I think it would have a greater impact, like the church has always had that impact when it’s more community involved and not more concentrated on staying inside the walls."

Pastor Sykes would also like to see different perspectives on the issue of crime from all races and all walks of life.

Sykes adds, "I’d like to see agencies, Department of Children Services, as they’re doing juvenile court, police department, sheriff’s department, everybody come to a welcome table and communicate."

And police officers can pick up where churches leave off, according to Juvenile Court Judge Rob Philyaw.

He’d still like to see the curfew ordinance enforced.

Judge Philyaw adds, "We as a system have to come up with a mechanism, a safe place where children can be taken while their parents or guardians can be contacted and to ensure they’re safe."