Pittsburgh police car. File photo. — Pittsburgh Police car. File photo.

PITTSBURGH, PA — The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police’s Violence Prevention Unit (VPU) has made significant arrests following targeted patrols in Allentown and downtown Pittsburgh, addressing community concerns over recent violent activities.

On July 8, during a proactive patrol in Allentown spurred by reports of shots fired and robberies, VPU detectives executed a traffic stop at the intersection of Millbridge St. and Lillian St. Visible marijuana and a firearm on the front passenger seat prompted the detention of the vehicle’s three occupants. Further investigation revealed two additional firearms under the driver’s seat and an AK-47 in a duffel bag under a rear passenger seat after the vehicle was towed and searched.

The occupants, Kameran William-Carter and Samuel Johnson, both 20, along with one juvenile, were arrested. William-Carter and Johnson are facing firearms charges and are currently held at the Allegheny County Jail. The juvenile was placed in a detention facility by juvenile probation.

Continuing their efforts, on July 11, VPU detectives apprehended Deontae Bates, 18, in the downtown area at Fifth Ave. and Market St., in possession of a stolen firearm originally from West Mifflin, PA. Bates has been charged with receiving stolen property and carrying a firearm without a license. These operations underscore the department’s commitment to curbing violence and enhancing safety in Pittsburgh communities.

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