Madison Park Shooting: Mayor Meghan George Comments

LAKEWOOD, OH — As Lakewood police continue to investigate the shooting of an 18-year-old at Madison Park, Mayor Meghan George issued a warning to violent criminals.

"To the criminals bringing this violence to our community, a warning: Lakewood is not a place for violent criminals. If you have or use illegal firearms in Lakewood, we will prosecute to the fullest extent the law allows. Our Police are in our parks right now and they will continue to be there. Our Police are patrolling Lakewood. We are ready," George said in a statement on Wednesday afternoon.

Lakewood City Council has already proposed several sweeping safety measures, including pulling safety director duties away from George and creating a dedicated position to assume that role. Council has also called for an expanded police presence at Madison Park.

Read more: 18-Year-Old Hurt In Shooting At Madison Park

George issued her own plan to improve safety on Wednesday.

• Increase police patrols around Lakewood and in Madison Park.
• Deploy a dedicated police presence at Madison Park seven days a week during peak hours.
• Enhance security camera surveillance around Lakewood, where appropriate.
• Address trauma created by recent violence via a community-wide response effort.

"To the Lakewood community, a commitment: While there is no absolute way to prevent random acts of violence, I have made it clear to our Police Department that Lakewood is not a place for criminals to come with their guns and settle disagreements. Lakewood is our home and our expertly trained Police Department will protect it," George said.

George also issued a thank you to Lakewood's first responders, noting their swift action on Tuesday night. She said the city's park security guard provided first aid to the shooting victim until EMS arrived.

"Our police department also reacted quickly and continues to investigate this crime. I was on-hand at the police station for hours last night, as leads were worked through and progress was made on the investigation. That work is not only important in providing justice for this victim, but in providing safety and restoring security for our Lakewood community," George said.