UPDATE: A shocking turn of events has emerged as multiple activists known for their “violence prevention” efforts are now facing serious criminal charges, including murder and assault. Reports confirm that these individuals, who previously promoted community-based approaches to combat crime, have been implicated in violent crimes across several U.S. cities, including Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Flint, Michigan, and Chicago.
The urgency of this situation is underscored by the recent arrests of these activists, raising significant concerns about the effectiveness of their initiatives and the safety of the communities they serve. Just last month, Kellen McMiller, a prominent figure in Chicago’s Peacekeepers program, was arrested in connection with a deadly burglary that resulted in a fatal car crash on September 11, 2025. This incident followed a public appearance with Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, where McMiller was celebrated for his community outreach efforts.
Meanwhile, Cotey Wynn, who was once highlighted by the Washington D.C. Attorney General’s office as a symbol of redemption, is now charged with aiding a gunman in a September 2023 murder case at a local smoking lounge. Surveillance footage reportedly shows Wynn signaling to the shooter, leading to his current detention without bail.
In Philadelphia, activists are reeling from the arrest of Sergio Hyland, who is accused of shooting his girlfriend and dumping her body in April. Hyland had previously built a reputation as a “hood abolitionist” advocating against mass incarceration.
In Rochester, New York, former community leader Anthony Hall was sentenced to two years in prison for assaulting a police officer during a domestic dispute. Hall, who once led the Pathways to Peace program, also faces scrutiny over financial misconduct while operating a nonprofit aimed at reducing crime.
Finally, Leon El-Alamin, a Flint city councilman and founder of the MADE Institute, has been charged with domestic violence and assault following allegations of brutalizing an ex-girlfriend. El-Alamin’s background includes a record that was expunged under Michigan’s “clean slate” law, which aimed to help former offenders reintegrate into society.
This series of arrests raises critical questions about the integrity and accountability of community violence prevention programs. Officials from the Metropolitan Peace Initiatives in Chicago are now reconsidering their vetting processes for activists involved in such programs, acknowledging the need for improved standards.
As these cases unfold, the implications for community safety and crime prevention strategies in liberal cities are profound. The public is left wondering how these individuals, once seen as champions of change, became embroiled in violent crime.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates as authorities continue to investigate these troubling developments.
