Muslims, community, political leaders target, and catch, alleged rapist

By FinalCall.com News | Last updated: Jan 22, 2015 - 9:38:08 AM

New Marcus Garvey Movement leader and activist Malik Shabazz and volunteers preparing to hit the streets of Highland Park, Mich., to find a rapist.

HIGHLAND PARK, Mich. (FinalCall.com) - The abduction and rape of an 11-year-old girl on her way home from school when snatched at gunpoint, and forced into an abandoned home, produced feelings of anger and outrage. It was early December and the Highland Park community began to quickly organize around this tragic situation.

Community activists, Student Minister Troy and others address the media.

Highland Park Mayor DeAndre Windom called Student Minister Troy Muhammad of Muhammad Mosque No. 1 in nearby Detroit and asked for help. Would the local Nation of Islam leader stand with a coalition on behalf of this young girl? the mayor asked. “Yes sir!” responded Student Minister Muhammad.

A collaborative effort was put together by Malik Shabazz, founder of the New Marcus Garvey Movement, and called for walking the streets of Highland Park handing out fliers with the description of the rapist given by the young victim. “When the people, the politicians, the police, the press can all unite we can cause a new reality,” said Mr. Shabazz.

The mayor of Highland Park issued an appeal at a press conference: “I need the community to stand up, this is a call to action to say enough is enough!” declared Mayor Windom.

The first day of the campaign many showed up, but the impact of Mr. Muhammad coming to city hall accompanied by 25 members of the Fruit of Islam was unmistakable. It brought higher energy and spirit to those who were present. “These men (the F.O.I.) aren’t here for show, they are not here for a reward, but they are here because they have been taught to respect and protect the Black woman. In her is the key to our rise as a people and anyone who violates her is an enemy to us all,” said Student Minister Muhammad.

Concerned citizens, members of various organizations and members of Muhammad Mosque No. 1 started hitting the streets. “This effort, although it began with a tragic situation, shows us what we can do in unity,” said Highland Park resident Venita Flowers.

They walked the streets for three weeks straight searching for the assailant and finally there was a break in the case. A tip led police to an arrest of the alleged assailant on a Greyhound bus in another city. It appeared that the heavy presence in the neighborhood made the alleged assailant want to get out of town. Once the alleged rapist was apprehended, a press conference was held by Mayor Windom who gave praise and thanks to the Nation of Islam for their help.

Student Minister Troy Muhammad and Highland Park Mayor DeAndre Windom.

We couldn’t have had this result without the help of the Nation of Islam and the other community groups involved, added Police Chief Kevin Coney. He spoke highly of how the skills of the F.O.I. helped with organizing efforts. It was later reported that the suspect had confessed to the crime.

I am proud of every man of the F.O.I. who showed up and assisted in this crisis because our unified efforts helped get a violator of one of our children off the streets, said Mr. Muhammad.

The Final Call