With gun crimes escalating in some larger cities around the country, Janesville Police Chief David Moore is offering an open letter to the community asking for help in avoiding the same fate. Moore says studies indicate criminals may feel empowered because of a growing distrust of police. He say luckily that doesn’t appear to be a problem in Janesville. The chief does urge residents to place the burden of limiting the chance of gun crimes on police. He says since conflict typically precedes gun violence, he asks residents to notify the authorities if they learn of threats or suspect domestic abuse. Moore says officers will continue to be vigilant in monitoring high risk offenders, bars, and suspected drug houses.