They've been a common ornament all over Siouxland, recently. Shoes. Just dangling from power lines.
Experts say there's a variety of explanations for it, and chances are, it's nothing more than a prank. But all jokes aside, city officers are treating these unsightly decorations as a red flag.
Brian Van Berkum, with the South Sioux City Police Department, says, "It give the alert that there is drug activity here. That you can find your drug needs at this location or in this area."
Aside from drugs, shoes on a wire can also represent prostitution and/or gang activity in the area. They're typically associated among a younger demographic. And while it's a problem all year round, the start of the school year in particular, can attribute to a spike in juvenile crime.
Jordan Hough, attends high school in Sioux City, and admits, "A lot of people throw up gang signs in hallways, trying to fight over who's better – stuff like that. But fights are usually after school."
Jacob Hoogendyk, a juvenile investigator with the Sioux City Police Department, confirms, "The peak time that kids get themselves in trouble is from the time they get out of school to basically the time their parents get off work.
So experts say keep tabs on your student, and it'll help them keep this activity under control.
If you see suspicious activity in your area, officers always encourage your tips with as much detailed information as possible. You can call 712-258-8477
