Funen Police have implemented an aggravated penalty zone in Vollsmose, Odense, effective Monday at 4 PM, in response to recent shooting incidents. The zone doubles the penalties for various offenses committed within its boundaries.

The decision to introduce the aggravated penalty zone follows two shooting incidents, the most recent occurring late Sunday evening in Lærkeparken, Vollsmose. In this incident, a 28-year-old man from Odense was shot. Police are investigating the shooting as gang-related crime.

Deputy Police Inspector Michael Liechtenstein stated that the police will not tolerate such violence in public spaces and hope the aggravated penalty zone, along with ongoing investigations and a visible police presence, will deter further violent incidents. The zone covers roughly the same area as the visitation zone already in place.

The other incident referenced by authorities occurred on August 16, where two people were injured in a public shooting in Fyrreparken, Vollsmose. In both shootings, the victims’ injuries were not life-threatening.

The aggravated penalty zone will remain in effect until September 17 at 4 PM.