Police Arrest 81-Year-Old California Man Described as "Serial Slingshot Shooter"

Police last week arrested an 81-year-old Southern California man whom they described as a "serial slingshot shooter" believed to have been victimizing his neighbors for about a decade.

Azusa police said they responded to a "quality of life issue" in the 900 block of North Enid Avenue and learned that over the last nine to ten years, "dozens of citizens were being victimized by a serial slingshot shooter."

The man allegedly broke windows and windshields with his weapon and at times almost hit people, police said. Inmate records indicate that the suspect, Prince King, is 81 years old. Police did not list an attorney who could comment on his behalf.

Azusa Police Investigation and Arrest

Azusa police Lt. Jake Bushey told the San Gabriel Valley Tribune that the police began investigating after the first slingshot incident but had been unable to pin down a suspect until now. Bushey said Saturday that he wasn't sure how King was ultimately identified, but detectives learned that most of the ball bearings were coming from King's backyard or "a nearby neighborhood."

Police served a search warrant at the neighborhood where the slingshot attacks were happening Thursday and ultimately arrested King. Police said ball bearings and a slingshot were found at his home.

Community Impact and Reactions

Azusa, California, police vehicles outside a home.

Azusa, California, police arrested an alleged "serial slingshot shooter" accused of terrorizing neighbors for about a decade. Azusa Police Department / Azusa Police Department

The long-running series of slingshot attacks had left many community members feeling unsafe and frustrated. Residents reported numerous instances of broken windows and damaged property, attributing the damages to the elusive slingshot shooter. Some neighbors expressed relief at the arrest, hoping it would bring an end to the years of disturbances.

Despite the arrest, some community members remain skeptical. Commenters on the police department’s Facebook post mentioned that windows of their cars had been shot out but that they couldn't be sure King was the culprit. The decade-long duration of the incidents had led to widespread uncertainty and suspicion within the community.

Possible Motive and Further Investigation

Police haven't identified a clear motive for the attacks "other than just malicious mischief," Bushey said, according to the Tribune. Bushey added that the shots weren't random, although he didn't know why certain people or properties were targeted.

The investigation into King's actions is ongoing, as police continue to gather evidence and testimonies from victims. Authorities are also looking into the possibility that King may have had accomplices or that there may be additional undiscovered incidents linked to the slingshot attacks.

Impact on Victims and Community

Victims of the slingshot attacks have endured significant stress and financial burden over the years, frequently having to repair damaged windows and windshields. The unpredictability and randomness of the attacks created a pervasive sense of unease among residents. The community's relief at the arrest is tempered by the prolonged period of victimization they endured, with many hoping for restitution and justice.

Upcoming Legal Proceedings

King's next court date is scheduled for Tuesday, where he will face charges related to the slingshot attacks. The court proceedings are expected to shed more light on the extent of the damages and the impact on the community. The legal process will also determine the consequences King will face for his alleged decade-long spree of vandalism and endangerment.

The arrest of Prince King marks a significant development in a case that has plagued the Azusa community for years. As the legal process unfolds, residents hope for closure and a return to a sense of security and peace in their neighborhood. The police department has assured the community that they will continue to work diligently to resolve the case and prevent similar incidents in the future.

Community Resilience and Support

In the wake of the arrest, community members are coming together to support each other and address the lasting effects of the prolonged harassment. Local organizations are offering counseling and assistance to those impacted by the slingshot attacks. Neighborhood watch groups are being strengthened to ensure such incidents do not occur again, fostering a sense of solidarity and vigilance among residents.

The case has highlighted the importance of community cooperation and the role of vigilant citizens in assisting law enforcement efforts. The Azusa Police Department has encouraged residents to continue reporting suspicious activities and to remain engaged in community safety initiatives.

Community Vigilance and Future Prevention

The arrest of Prince King has underscored the need for increased community vigilance and proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. Residents are being urged to install security cameras and report any suspicious activities immediately. Neighborhood associations are organizing meetings to discuss further preventive measures and to establish stronger communication channels with local law enforcement.

Police Commitment to Community Safety

The Azusa Police Department has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. Regular patrols have been increased in the affected areas, and a dedicated hotline has been established for residents to report any concerns or new incidents promptly. The department is also conducting community outreach programs to educate residents about personal safety and property protection strategies.

Conclusion

The resolution of the decade-long slingshot attacks brings a sense of relief and renewed trust in law enforcement for the Azusa community. As the legal proceedings against Prince King move forward, the community remains united in their efforts to support one another and maintain a safe environment for all residents. The collaborative efforts between the police and the community serve as a testament to the power of collective action in addressing and overcoming local challenges.