MARIANNA, Ark. — An Arkansas town near the Mississippi border was under a state of emergency this weekend due to a "troubling increase in gun violence."
With consultation from the Marianna Police Department, city council, Arkansas State Police, and the Lee County Sheriff's Department, the city of Marianna was put under a 52-hour state of emergency from March 29 at 8 p.m. until March 31 at midnight.
"This decision was not made lightly but is essential to ensure the safety and security of all residents of Marianna," Marianna's mayor and city council said in an address to residents. "The rise in gun-related incidents poses an immediate threat to the welfare of our community, and this measure is necessary to address the crisis immediately."
The address was not clear about which gun-related incidents the mayor and city council were referring to.
Under the state of emergency, residents were required to abide by a mandatory curfew between 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Public gatherings were also prohibited. The mayor also said there would be an increased presence of law enforcement patrolling the city during the weekend.
"We understand that these measures may pose an inconvenience, but the safety and well-being of our community are our top priorities," the address said. "Together we can overcome this crisis and restore peace and security to our beloved city."
Although the state of emergency is almost lifted, some residents commented on the police department's Facebook curious to know what other solutions the city will have beyond the weekend curfew.
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