CHANDLER, AZ – In a recent meeting of the Chandler City Council, the focus was on the issue of teen violence, particularly in the case of the Gilbert Goons and Preston Lord’s tragic death. Acting Chandler Police Chief Melissa Deanda assured council members that the department remains vigilant in addressing matters that compromise the safety of the community, especially when it involves youth. Detective work has found no direct links to the Gilbert Goons, but efforts to address teen violence continue.
During the meeting, Preston Lord’s stepmother made an emotional statement, sharing the devastating impact of her son’s untimely death and calling for action to prevent similar occurrences in the future. This plea comes in the wake of increased concern about teen violence in the East Valley, as more parents express worry over the rise in attacks and bullying targeting their children. The community showed support by wearing orange in honor of Lord.
Stories shared by other parents highlighted the severity of the issue, with one mother recounting her son’s assault at the Chandler Mall and another mother describing a brutal attack involving brass knuckles at an In-N-Out in Gilbert. These testimonies underscore the urgency for preventative measures and widespread change in the region.
Acting Chief Deanda also addressed the City Council, emphasizing that Chandler is collaborating with other East Valley law enforcement agencies to gather information on individuals using gang-style tactics to commit crimes. Increased patrol presence in areas prone to larger gatherings is one of the measures being taken to ensure community safety.
The meeting coincided with the release of photos by the Gilbert police, connecting several individuals to cases of teen violence in the East Valley. The department is currently investigating nine cases and has made arrests in connection to attacks on teens at an In-N-Out parking lot and in the desert. One of the individuals arrested has admitted to being associated with the Gilbert Goons, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The tragic loss of Preston Lord and the alarming increase in teen violence have prompted a call for action in the East Valley, as parents and law enforcement work together to address and prevent further incidents.