Newport News, Va. - Newport News Police were able to make two arrests after investigating rumored threats regarding possible criminal activity that could take place at the city's Hollydazzle event.
Police began receiving tips from several sources regarding the criminal activity a few weeks prior to the event, according to a statement from Newport News Chief of Police Richard Myers.
Police say the information all had a common theme regarding juveniles and young adults bringing weapons to the event. Sources provided details about who was suspected to be involved and what they were planning on doing. The statement did not provide details on any of the particular planned threats.
A plan to investigate each suspect and suspected activity was put in place by the department.
As a result, two people were arrested for weapons violations. Several others were questioned about their involvement, but no additional charges were filed.
The statement says though details cannot be discussed, the plan involved the cooperation of many city agencies.
Quinn Oshae Wesley
"I can say that the safety of everyone attending was always paramount and in the forefront of each decision. I would also like to say that without the members of the community, both young and adult, taking the time to reach out and share this vital information with their police officials, this event could have turned out much different. The collective effort by everyone involved, whether associated with the event or reaching out and providing and sharing critical information, played a role in making the event a community success and a positive family oriented celebration," Chief Myers wrote.
The two men arrested have been identified as 18-year-old Keron Lamar Jones of Chesapeake, and 21-year-old Quinn Oshae Wesley or Newport News. Both were released on summonses. A mugshot for Wesley from a previous trespassing arrest was released. A mugshot for Jones has not been released.
The event went on without incident on Friday, December 5th.
