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Controversial Flyers Causing Stir In Swissvale Community

SWISSVALE (KDKA) -- Some flyers have been posted on utility poles in a Swissvale neighborhood, and not everyone is happy with them.

They read: "Attention Swissvale. Beware of the terrorist in your neighborhood! They are black males who are influenced by Satan to do evil. They have guns."

The message is from Rev. Sheldon Stoudemire, a street minister raised in Swissvale who is now living in Braddock.

John Whitney complained about the flyers, saying, "How can you call me a terrorist and you don't even know me?"

He said neither he or his son own a gun.

Rhonda Whitney, his common law wife, added, "I was offended by the flyers; this community cares."

Rev. Stoudemire told KDKA's Ralph Iannotti that he's sorry if he offended anybody, but he considers young people with guns "terrorists."

He said too many in the African American community have become desensitized by the shootings.

Stoudemire and some supporters have planned a march Saturday night in Swissvale.

Rev Sheldon Stoudemire Part 1

NewsRadio 1020 KDKA

Rev Sheldon Stoudemire Part 2

NewsRadio 1020 KDKA

RELATED LINKS:
More Swissvale News
More Reports by Ralph Iannotti

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