Police Work Highlighted At City Council Meeting

June 3, 2025 2:34 am

Departmental reports highlighted the agenda meeting for Washington City Council. In particular, Washington City Police Chief Steve Devenney reported on several incidents that involved city police. Devenney wanted to be clear about the May 7 incident at the 7th Ward playground where several juveniles were fighting. He said that the investigation into the fight is ongoing and expects charges to be filed in the near future. Devenney was emphatic in stating that there is no indication of a hate crime. He cautioned the audience to be careful of characterizing incidents incorrectly. He said that an incorrect assessment could lead to further and elevated events for no reason. Devenney said that surveillance cameras are now fully installed at the playground. In another incident, Devenney issued a statement on Tuesday with the results of the investigation into the vehicular accident of Jonathan Gillespie who was killed on West Chestnut Street while riding a dirt bike in April. Devenney said that after meeting with the family, it was determined that no criminal charges will be filed against the driver who struck Gillespie. He said that there was no evidence to put the driver at fault. Devenney also commented on the arrest of Trevon McCrary. He is suspected of shooting and killing Nasstylejah Wilkerson near the JFK Elementary school last month. Devenney credited United States Marshals for bringing McCrary in to face a charge of homicide. Devenney indicated that the investigation into the shooting is ongoing and any others involved will also be brought to justice.