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People in East Anniston are scared.
A serial rapist remains at large after at least three attacks within the past six months.
Some residents turn to handguns for self-protection.
That's not uncommon during a crime outbreak or a high-profile case, according to Sheriff Larry Amerson.
"When they're made aware of these situations they think well this is something that i need to do."
A need for self-protection drives some people to purchase a second weapon. Others, like Sandy Frost, prepare to use a fire arm for the first time.
Frost says, "I have grandchildren so I've never kept it loaded, but I've got it loaded now. It's by my bed so that if i need it it's there."
Chilling details of three rapes in East Anniston motivated Frost to activate her home alarm system, another first.
"I've never hooked it up, but I did plug it in and make sure that it goes off."
Mayor Chip Howell says "It's a very difficult time and something people are a little nervous about."
To empower a frightened community city leaders call on the neighborhood to come together. Signs encourage people in East Anniston to meet on Wednesday inside a church about two blocks away from the most recent attack.
Beneath the steeple the Sheriff, Anniston Police and City Council members will arm residents with details about the attacker.
Howell says the event "just gives the people there the opportunity to ask questions, to visit with us, and for us to disseminate what information we can disseminate to them."
With a rapist on the loose, that information can mean protection for the neighborhood.
Frost says, "I'm locked up like Fort Nnox so no body can get in."
Wednesday's crime meeting begins at six p.m. It will be held at the Rufuge Full Gospel Methodist Church on the corner of 22nd and Christine.
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