Gov. Malloy, law enforcement officials hold summit on gun violence in Bridgeport

BRIDGEPORT, Connecticut (WABC) -- Connecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy held a meeting Thursday with Bridgeport Mayor Joseph Ganim, along with federal, state, and local law enforcement officials to discuss the city's strategy to combat a recent spike in gun violence.

Now more visible on the streets of Bridgeport, as Eyewitness News took an exclusive ride-along, there is a greater police presence.

There are stepped up patrols and more officers in 'hot spots' where recent gun violence is raising concern and now bringing needed help.

"We're after you, we're coming for you," said Gov. Malloy. "If you have a gun, and in many cases we know who, we're coming for you."

Law enforcement officials, local state and federal, are coming together and offering Bridgeport police the needed help.

"If you think you can run around with a gun, take potshots, even if you think they are justified because of your own, let's call it warped rivalry, that's not going to be tolerated," said Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim.

In the past month, a rash of shootings have occurred in this city, including one in which 13 people were wounded by gunmen at a party.

Community leaders like Ted Meekins tell me safety is needed. "They are very positive efforts," said Meekins. "The community supports the chief. The community wants a safe community. And our children are entitled to a safe community."

Police believe there are small groups of teenagers responsible for the gun violence, not specifically gangs.

"All we want is the safety and well-being of the good people of the city of Bridgeport, the good people who live in this city and deserve to be protected," said Bridgeport Police Chief A.J. Perez.

State Police resources will now be utilized, some of it visible and some of it not.

"People in Bridgeport will see some change very rapidly," said Gov. Malloy.