Gwinnett police increase patrols at Asian-owned businesses following Atlanta-area shootings
Asian American Pacific Islander community responds to deadly Atlanta-area spa shootings
Authorities said the confessed shooter, Robert Long, said he was not racially motivated to kill Asian women on Tuesday. Some say the context of the shootings and rise in crimes against Asian Americans cannot be ignored.
ATLANTA - Though there are no known threats, police in Gwinnett County said they are increasing patrols near Asain-owned businesses in the wake of multiple deadly shootings at Atlanta-area spas on Tuesday.
Cpl. Collin Flynn said the patrol increase was in response to Tuesday's tragic events and Gwinnett County Police Department patrols are on alert near Asian-owned businesses, particularly spas.
Flynn said, although there are no known threats, patrols would continue for the foreseeable future for "the safety and comfort of the community."
"If anyone sees something that may appear suspicious or potentially criminal in nature, they are encouraged to call the police immediately," Flynn said.
The department said Friday it was making effort to reach out to members of the Asian-American community, including businesses and organizations, to address their "heightened sense of concern" of being targeted for crimes. The purpose of the meetings is to provide support and crime prevention education, officials said.
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The Gwinnett Police Department Community Affairs Section will maintain an open dialog with the Asian community and address any additional concerns or issues as they are identified to increase their outreach efforts.
Authorities in Cherokee County said 21-year-old Robert Aaron Long, suspected of killing eight and injuring one, confessed to three shootings at Atlanta-area spas, one in Cherokee County and two in Atlanta.
Law enforcement officials said Long told police his motive stemmed from a "sexual addiction."
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