CMPD could have new powers to disrupt notorious gang

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Police in Charlotte could have new powers to disrupt what they call a violent gang making a comeback in north Charlotte. 

In a lawsuit against the Hidden Valley Kings gang and 20 of its alleged members, a judge agreed to an injunction that would severely restrict the activities of gang members.

It would allow police to arrest those 20 men if they associate with other known gang members, carry guns or try to recruit new members.

Police said it will help them disrupt the activities of gang members who claim the Hidden Valley neighborhood as their "turf." 

But several men police claim are the gang's leaders said they are being unfairly targeted.

"They're picking on us because we're from Hidden Valley," said Wendell McCain. 

McCain, Kevin Funderburk and Cordell Blair are named in a police affidavit as the group's top leaders. 

Outside the courthouse this morning Blair called the claims "baloney."

"I've never been the leader of any gang," McCain said.  "I encourage kids to do good, stay in school and do something positive with your life."

Police who spent months investigating gang activity in Hidden Valley said after the judge signs the injunction, they will serve each of the 20 men named with a copy of the judge's ruling and then begin enforcing its restrictions.

As for Cordell Blair's claims that the defendants are not members of the Hidden Valley Kings, CMPD attorney Mark Newbold said, "I don't believe a word he says."

"Everybody likes to be in peace, sit in the porch, walk the streets,” said resident Fletcher Canady.

Canady said he doesn’t walk through his neighborhood much because things have changed since he first moved in more than 40 years ago.

"It's just the people that moved in, is bringing a bad reputation for the Hidden Valley area,” he said.

In the past 6 months, Channel 9 found more than 800 crimes reported, including assault, drugs and weapons, theft and larceny.

Canady was one of the only neighbors who would go on camera to talk about the issues.

He thinks this idea could be just the right move, for a safer, more peaceful community.

"I think it could be better if the law enforces it like they say they will,” Canady said.

WSOC