LEWISTON, Maine – The Lewiston Police Department announced another troubling gun-related incident involving a juvenile this week, as concerns continue to grow over youth violence in the city.
According to police, officers responded to the area of Horton Street on May 21 at approximately 4:15 p.m. after concerned residents reported seeing what they believed were two teenagers with a firearm.
Officers quickly arrived in the neighborhood and located a 15-year-old male allegedly in possession of a handgun. Police said the teen was safely detained and the firearm was seized without incident.
Investigators said the juvenile initially refused to identify himself, but officers were eventually able to confirm his identity. Authorities noted the suspect had previously been charged with Criminal Threatening with a Dangerous Weapon, a Class C felony, as well as Aggravated Assault, a Class B felony, along with additional charges.
During the investigation, police determined the handgun had previously been reported stolen.
The teen was subsequently charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Possession of a Stolen Firearm. He was transported to the Long Creek Youth Development Center and booked into custody.
Lewiston Police thanked the residents who contacted authorities about the suspicious activity, as well as the Androscoggin County District Attorney’s Office and Juvenile Community Corrections Officers for assisting in the case.
The latest arrest comes amid heightened public concern over a recent string of shootings and gun incidents involving young people in Lewiston.
Community leaders are now preparing for a public forum focused on gun violence and public safety in the city. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, June 3, at 7 p.m. at Calvary Chapel.
The community conversation will feature Jon Fetherston, gubernatorial candidate Ben Midgley, and Pastor Aaron Davis. Organizers say elected officials, school staff, law enforcement representatives, members of the Attorney General’s Office, and local community organizations have been invited to participate.
The forum is expected to focus on recent youth violence, concerns from residents, and possible solutions aimed at restoring safety and stability in Lewiston neighborhoods.
