NORTH LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — As North Las Vegas residents continue demanding answers in a string of shootings that have claimed the lives of children, police say social media is the key.
"A feud pops up because of a picture, we are finding out," a North Las Vegas police officer told the audience at a community safety forum.
That was the main message from police as the community grilled them on what can be done to stem the recent violence that left three children dead and two others shot in November.
RELATED: North Las Vegas residents demand answers in recent shootings
Officers said it is also more critical than ever for parents to monitor kids ever-changing social media profiles.
"More important than their money is how popular they are on social media," Captain Ken Young with the Clark County School District Police Department said.
North Las Vegas' new police chief was highlighting the changes she's made to prevent further violence.
They include putting more officers on the streets, engaging community organizations and working to implement new technology.
Chief Pam Ojeda was quick to dispute the perception that gangs were driving the shootings, saying only one of the four were tied to those such groups.
"Once anyone hears the word gang or targeted everyone's fears are out, and we want to dispel any rumors any rumors and get the information cleared up a soon as possible," Ojeda said.
Several community leaders were pointing out programs available for children but also say neighbors can help keep kids accountable even when mom or dad is stuck at work.
"It is going to take a lot of people connecting and saying you may not be my child, but you are one of our children," State Senator Pat Spearman said.
Community members who came seeking answers say they were happy to hear from police but hope for more transparency moving forward.
"The community needs to feel confident that there are changes taking place and there need to be publicized," North Las Vegas resident Ramon Savoy said.
Police said they would try to provide that transparency and want to make sure people aren't afraid to walk around their neighborhoods.
