We are no longer a sleepy, rural town

Thank you, Village News, for your recent coverage of Fallbrook’s gang sweep. Your articles’ thoroughness and undiluted facts are greatly appreciated.

Lt. Alex Dominguez’s sheriff’s-eye view on May 8 was a wonderful bonus. Your mention of drug cartels and the mafia was chilling. Shocking, really. We deeply appreciate the truth, anyway. If shock is what it takes, then give it to us.

We are no longer a sleepy, rural town. Darkness reigns, preying on the young and old alike. Printed, unsanitized media reports shine a light on it. It keeps us alert and aware.

Stabbings, shootings, home invasions (definition: occupied home armed robbery) and carjackings (definition: armed robbery of your car with you in it) are not blips on the screen of a calendar year. They have become common weekly occurrences in Fallbrook.

The devolution of our sweet town is difficult to look in the eye, much less comprehend. As Fallbrook citizens we cannot afford to ignore the escalation of violent crime. Our beautiful way of life will be given over to that of a common border town.

Those who have the time or inclination may want to be proactive by attending a meeting on Tuesday, May 27, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church. Local law enforcement agents will address violent crime and the latest crime trends. Three law-enforcement speakers will share views and answer questions. Thanks to Fallbrook Citizens’ Crime Prevention Committee for sponsoring it.

Melia Harper