On two recent occasions, stray bullets have hit buildings on the campus of American International College in Springfield. But the school’s president says the campus is safe regardless.
Police say the bullets came from gang violence in the surrounding neighborhood of Mason Square. AIC President Vincent Maniaci says in recent years, the school has hired more security officers, given them more training, and hired consultants to improve the campus safety plan.
“I believe that our campus is much safer, or is as safe now, as it’s ever been”, Maniaci says. “Unfortunately, we can’t control the sporadic gang violence that takes place from time to time in our community. But we need to do everything we can to try to minimize or eliminate it.”
Maniaci says Springfield leaders have been working with AIC on the problem. Mayor Domenic Sarno says the city is increasing patrols, trying to identify suspects and enlisting the help of the State and federal law enforcement to end to the recent surge of what he calls “gun play.”