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  • 😰 Suburban Terror: The Gilbert Goons' Reign of Violence 🦹 Leader of doomsday family back in Arizona and more...

😰 Suburban Terror: The Gilbert Goons' Reign of Violence 🦹 Leader of doomsday family back in Arizona and more...

Gilbert Local Pulse | Issue #040

Author

Lloyd Heath
December 15, 2023

😈😈😈😈

In this issue of Gilbert Local Pulse

🌤️ Gilbert, AZ Local Weather

 📅 Gilbert, AZ and Surrounding Area Events

👮‍♀️ Police chief disputes claims of any active investigations into “Gilbert Goons”

 😰 Suburban Terror: The Gilbert Goons' Reign of Violence and the Quest for Justice

 🦹 Leader of doomsday family back in Arizona to face charges in Gilbert teen’s disappearance

 🚧 Heritage Trail near Elliot to Partially Close for Railroad Construction

☕ Gilbert Couple Opens First Ziggi’s Coffee Gilbert Location

 🎄 Lights on Lark offers Christmas wonderland in Queen Creek

 🏈 San Francisco 49ers Star Shares His Top Arizona Hangouts and Activities

December Ongoing

December Upcoming Events

Police chief disputes claims of any active investigations into “Gilbert Goons”

In Gilbert, Arizona, Police Chief Michael Soelberg has refuted claims about investigations into a group labeled the "Gilbert Goons." These allegations surfaced on social media and in media reports, suggesting that the police were probing a group of local teens under this name. However, Chief Soelberg clarified that there are no police reports involving victims or suspects linked to this group. The issue emerged following a Gilbert Town Council meeting where the deaths of three East Valley teens — Preston Lord, Hailey Stephens, and Jamiere Jenkins — were acknowledged. Speculation had linked the "Gilbert Goons" to the death of Preston Lord, who was fatally beaten outside a Queen Creek Halloween party. Despite over 50 warrants being served in the case, there have been no arrests, and the Queen Creek Police Department is still reviewing an extensive amount of information and awaiting the medical examiner's report.

The community has shown significant concern and involvement, with many attending town council meetings and voicing their frustrations over the progress of the investigations. Chief Soelberg emphasized the community's fear and frustration following these tragic events and assured the commitment of the Gilbert Police Department to investigating and prosecuting any acts of violence. He urged the public to directly report any relevant information to avoid confusion and misinformation online. The department continues to focus on teen safety education through various initiatives​

Suburban Terror: The Gilbert Goons' Reign of Violence and the Quest for Justice

In a disturbing series of events, the quiet suburbs of Gilbert, Queen Creek, and San Tan Valley in Arizona have been shaken by a series of brutal attacks attributed to a group of affluent teenagers known as the "Gilbert Goons." This gang, comprising mostly white, upper-middle-class teens from various local high schools, has been carrying out random, violent assaults for over a year.

The Goons' attacks have escalated in violence, involving brutal beatings with brass knuckles and other weapons, leading to serious injuries such as cracked skulls. Fear and intimidation tactics have been used to silence their victims. Despite pleas to police and school authorities, and the presence of evidence on social media showing the Goons posing with weapons and engaging in reckless behavior, action against them has been limited.

The situation turned tragic with the death of 16-year-old Preston Lord, found battered on the side of a street in Queen Creek. His death, following a vicious attack at a Halloween party, marked the first homicide investigation for the Queen Creek Police Department. Despite the outcry from the community and the involvement of the FBI, the investigation has been slow, with no arrests made in connection to Lord's murder.

Parents and community members have expressed frustration over the perceived lack of action from authorities, fearing further violence and questioning whether the Goons are being shielded due to their parents' influence. The community has rallied for justice, organizing marches and using social media platforms to spread awareness and gather information.

As the Gilbert Goons continue to instill fear in the Southeast Valley, the community remains united in its pursuit of justice and safety, hoping to put an end to the random acts of violence that have plagued their neighborhoods.

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Leader of doomsday family back in Arizona to face charges in Gilbert teen’s disappearance

Brook Hale, a 47-year-old man identified as the leader of a family group with shared doomsday beliefs, has been extradited back to Arizona to face serious charges stemming from the disappearance of his 16-year-old nephew in Gilbert, Arizona. Hale is charged with custodial interference and conspiracy to commit custodial interference, both of which are felonies. The incident occurred in October when the teen, under the influence of these beliefs, was reportedly taken by Hale and his non-custodial mother, Spring Thibaudeau.

According to reports, the teen's father described a scenario where his wife, daughter, and brother-in-law believed the boy to be a "Davidic servant" significant to the Second Coming. This belief led them to take the teenager to a location where he was supposed to realize his supposed role in these religious events. Prior court documents revealed that Hale had even prepared a will, anticipating the end of the world.

The group, including the teen’s sister, traveled from Phoenix to Idaho and then crossed the border into Canada. They were found near the Canada-Alaska border four days later by U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents, leading to the arrests of Hale and the teen's mother. The teen was subsequently reunited with his father.

Hale, after being extradited from Alaska to Maricopa County jail, faced a judge who set his bond at $500,000 cash-only, given the nature of the crime and the potential risk of flight. The prosecution labeled the act as a calculated kidnapping effort based on the group's beliefs. Spring Thibaudeau, the teen's mother, is also awaiting extradition back to Arizona

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Heritage Trail near Elliot to Partially Close for Railroad Construction

In Gilbert, Arizona, the second phase of the Union Pacific Railroad construction project is set to occur along Heritage Trail on Saturday, December 16. This phase involves completing enhancements to a newly installed steel bridge near Elliot and Lindsay Roads. Due to these activities, there will be a partial closure of the trail and levee road in this area.

The closure, essential for the project's progress, is scheduled from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. During this time, Union Pacific crews will be focused on laying asphalt on the bridge approaches. Consequently, a segment of the bike path in the vicinity will also be temporarily closed until the work is finalized.

By Sunday, December 17, the trail, bike path, and levee road are expected to be fully reopened and accessible to the public.

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Gilbert Couple Opens First Ziggi’s Coffee Gilbert Location

Ziggi's Coffee, a well-known coffee franchise, recently opened its latest drive-thru location in Gilbert, Arizona, at the Lindsay and Williams Field roads intersection. The franchise owners, Thaddeus and Alyssa Langenwalter, who have been Gilbert residents for over ten years, are excited about their new venture. They have meticulously chosen this location, believing it to be ideal for their business. The grand opening is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on December 16, where they will offer a free 16-ounce drink to each customer. This offer is limited to one per customer and excludes other menu items, bottled beverages, online, and mobile app purchases, and is not valid for rewards points.

The new Ziggi’s location boasts a diverse menu featuring classic coffee options, Energy Infusions, various food choices, and a special kidZone menu. Notably, this is the sixth Ziggi’s outlet in Arizona, designed exclusively with a drive-thru, a walk-up window, and a patio area with tables and chairs for customers.

Alyssa Langenwalter expressed her enthusiasm for the grand opening and the opportunity to further engage with the Gilbert community. She is eager to build a dedicated team and welcomes new customers to their establishment. Ziggi’s Coffee, founded in 2004 in Colorado, has been recognized in the 2023 Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise 500. The franchise currently operates 77 locations nationwide, with over 200 additional units in development, and offers a range of breakfast and lunch food items.

Lights on Lark offers Christmas wonderland in Queen Creek

Queen Creek, Arizona, is home to a spectacular holiday spectacle, "Lights on Lark," located in the Cortina neighborhood at Power and Germann roads. This enchanting event features 32 houses, each adorned with unique and synchronized light displays set to music, creating a stunning visual experience. The community spirit shines through, with neighbors gathering around cozy fire pits, enjoying hot cocoa and friendly conversations. A standout house offers candy canes daily, highlighting the neighborhood's attention to detail and thoughtfulness. This event isn't just about dazzling lights; it's a celebration of community and togetherness. The light show runs weeknights from 5:30 to 10 p.m. and weekends from 5:30 to 11 p.m., with the best viewing experience recommended on weekdays. Special attractions include a snow machine on Fridays and Saturdays from 6 to 9 p.m.

San Francisco 49ers Star Shares His Top Arizona Hangouts and Activities

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy shares his perfect day itinerary in Arizona, highlighting his love for his home state. Purdy, who grew up in Gilbert, Arizona, emphasizes the competitive sports culture of the area that shaped his athletic prowess. His recommended activities for visitors or Arizonans include a challenging hike up Camelback Mountain, known for its stunning views and 2,704 feet elevation, located just 20 minutes from downtown Phoenix.

For those seeking adventure, Purdy suggests indulging in water sports, a favorite pastime during Arizona's hot summers. He fondly recalls wakeboarding, cliff jumping, and lake visits with friends and family. Additionally, Purdy's top dining choice is O.H.S.O. Brewery in downtown Gilbert, celebrated for its burgers, sweet potato fries, and vibrant atmosphere featuring outdoor seating, live music, and a dog park.

The 49ers also invite fans to join a special event at Fountain Park in the Westgate Entertainment District. The free Invasion presented by Zenni on December 16 offers giveaways, a raffle, and a chance to mingle with other fans before the team's game against the Cardinals. Although the event is free, tickets are required and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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