Tag: Community safety initiatives

Reducing Violence: Policy Recommendations

In 2022, gun violence in the US led to over 48,000 deaths. This had a big effect on kids and communities of color. Dr. Vivek Murthy, the US Surgeon General, says gun violence is a public health issue. He calls for more research, rules on guns, and support for mental health.

This shows how gun violence hits different groups hard. It’s clear we need to act fast to keep everyone safe, especially our young people.

Key Takeaways

Use proven methods to make communities safer, with advice from experts in crime studies, research, and making policies.
Look at violence from many angles with policy ideas like stricter alcohol laws, better policing, and school programs.
Focus on making policies based on data and working together across agencies to fight violence well.
Give power to communities and support young people to tackle violence’s deep causes like poverty and past trauma.
Keep updating policies to match new research and what communities really need.

Stricter Alcohol Policies

Alcohol is often linked to violence, with over 40% of violent crimes involving it. Stricter alcohol policies can help reduce violence and deaths, including those from firearms.

Higher Alcohol Tax

Studies show that higher taxes on alcohol can lower crime rates. If the U.S. had stricter alcohol policies, there could be up to 1,200 fewer homicides a year. This highlights how making alcohol more expensive can help.

Reducing the Number of Alcohol Outlets

More alcohol outlets mean more violence. Being close to places that sell alcohol can lead to more crime and risky drinking. Limiting where alcohol is sold can help reduce violence.

Revoking Alcohol Offenders’ Right to Drink

South Dakota’s “24/7 Sobriety” program makes offenders stay sober to reduce crime and violence. This shows how limiting alcohol access can help fight violence.

Dealing with violence means focusing on stricter alcohol rules. These steps can save lives and make communities safer.

Hot-Spot Policing

Hot-spot policing is a data-driven strategy to fight violence and improve safety. It uses police resources in high-crime areas to cut down crime and violence. This method aims to make a big difference in these specific spots.

This approach works well because it brings people together. Police, residents, families, and business owners work as a team. They figure out what these crime hot spots need and find ways to fix the problems.

Many studies show that hot-spot policing really works. It can lower crime without pushing it somewhere else. The community partnerships formed during this process often get a positive response from locals, making the program even more effective.

A review of 44 studies found that hot-spot policing cuts violence by about 14% on average. In some places in the UK, violent crime went down by 37% to 74% with more police and community involvement.

This method is also cost-effective. It doesn’t take a lot of money but can lead to big gains in public safety and less crime. By focusing on the most crime-ridden areas, police can make a lasting impact on crime and disorder.

As communities deal with violence, hot-spot policing is a hopeful solution. It combines evidence-based policing and strong community partnerships. This way, law enforcement and communities can work together for a safer future.

Focused Deterrence Policing

Focused deterrence policing targets specific issues like drug dealing and gang violence. It focuses on the main individuals and groups causing problems. This method works closely with community groups to make it clear what the legal and community consequences are for violence.

It also offers help and social services as alternatives to a life of crime.

Community Involvement

Community involvement is key in focused deterrence policing. By working with local groups and leaders, police can understand the root causes of violence. This helps build trust between the community and the police, which is vital for the program’s success.

Offering Alternatives to Violence

This policing approach sends a strong message about violence’s consequences. It also gives people a way out by offering social services. These services include counseling, treatment for substance abuse, and help with housing, education, and finding a job.

This support aims to equip individuals with the tools to change their lives for the better.

Studies show that focused deterrence can really cut down on crime. The “Boston Miracle” in the 1990s is a great example of this. Boston saw a big drop in youth homicides thanks to this approach. Other programs like Operation Ceasefire and the Boston Gun Project have also shown its effectiveness in fighting serious violence.

“Focused deterrence strategies have shown effectiveness in reducing crime in high-risk areas, lowering individuals’ risk of involvement in serious crimes, and potentially improving community relations when implemented in partnership with communities.”

Raise the Age or Grade for Dropping Out of School

Keeping students in school for longer could help reduce crime and violence. A study in the American Economic Journal shows that making it harder to drop out can lower crime rates.

This research says that more time in school changes how students act. It makes them less likely to commit crimes. It’s not just that they’re naturally better. This shows how education and safety are closely linked.

Targeted education policies could really help fight community violence.

Statistic	Percentage
Adolescents at risk of negative behaviors	25%
8th graders spending 2+ hours alone after school	27%
Juvenile violent crimes occurring after school	Most

Keeping youth in positive activities and with adults to watch over them is key. By making it harder to drop out, we can cut down on crime and violence. This makes communities safer and more prosperous.

“Providing opportunities, skills, and recognition can lead to healthy behaviors among youth.”

The Social Development Strategy points out how important it is to support and engage young people. By keeping students in school longer, we can use education to make our communities safer and healthier.

Set a Clear Goal: Commit to Saving Lives

City leaders must set a clear goal to reduce violence. They should aim to save lives by cutting down on homicide and non-fatal shooting rates. They should aim for a 10% drop each year in these rates.

It’s important to track real results, not just what’s done. In Boston, a focused strategy cut youth homicides by 63%. Oakland saw gun homicides drop by 31% and group shootings by 43% with this approach.

But, the situation is still serious. In 2020, 77% of homicides involved guns, up from 73% the year before. The rate of solving homicides fell from 82% in 1976 to 50% in 2020. This is a big problem for Black communities, where solving homicides was only 47% compared to 63% for whites.

By setting clear goals, city leaders can unite their communities and use resources wisely. They must commit to cutting homicide and non-fatal shooting rates. This is key to any strong anti-violence plan.

Identify Key People and Places Driving Violence

To cut down on violent crime, cities need a detailed violence analysis. They must look at who, what groups, and where most violence happens. This means checking incident data, police info, and social networks to find high-risk individuals and hot spot mapping risky areas.

Working with street outreach workers and non-police groups is key. They help check the findings and guide joint efforts. The Strategic Approaches to Community Safety Initiative (SACSI) saw violent crime drop by up to 50% in some cities.

In Boston, MA, Operation Ceasefire led to less youth homicide and fewer gun assaults. It also cut down on police calls and recovered guns. Hot spots policing worked well, lowering crime and violent crimes.

The Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS) made crime and police calls go down in some areas. The Comprehensive Anti-Gang Initiative (CAGI) also cut gang-related gun homicides in some cities.

Intervention	Outcome
Strategic Approaches to Community Safety Initiative (SACSI)	Up to 50% reduction in targeted violent crimes
Operation Ceasefire in Boston, MA	Reductions in youth homicide, citywide gun assaults, calls for service, and recovered new guns
Hot spots policing	Effective in reducing overall crime, Promising in reducing violent, property, public order, and drug and alcohol offenses
Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS)	Statistically significant reductions in crime and calls to 911 in police beats that implemented the program
Comprehensive Anti-Gang Initiative (CAGI)	Significant reduction in gun homicides related to gang crime in cities where the initiative was implemented

By focusing on key people and places, cities can target their efforts well. This helps in reducing crime and violence effectively.

Create a Citywide Plan for Engaging Key People and Places

Addressing violence reduction needs a well-coordinated effort. Leaders must make plans that focus on the most at-risk individuals and areas. These plans should use SMART criteria and highlight community partnerships between law enforcement and local communities.

About 34 cities have violence reduction units, but not all report to the mayor. The Violent Crime Working Group says it’s crucial to pinpoint key people and spots that cause violence. This should be done with hard data and accurate intel.

The goal is to cut homicides and non-fatal shootings by 10% each year. In the first half of 2023, the U.S. saw a 24% rise in homicides in 30 cities compared to before COVID-19. This shows the need for a strong violence reduction plan.

States and the federal government should back cities in their fight against violence. They should support local strategies that are based on evidence. By having a detailed, data-driven violence reduction plan, cities can tackle violence effectively. This plan should promote community partnerships and a multi-disciplinary response.

policy recommendations for reducing violence

To tackle the growing violent crime, we need a strong, evidence-based plan. This plan should include strict alcohol rules, focused police work, school programs, and working with the community. These strategies have shown they can really help when used together.

Here are the main parts of this plan:

Strict alcohol rules, like higher taxes and fewer places to buy alcohol, to cut down on alcohol misuse and violence.
Hot-spot policing focuses police on areas and people most involved in violent crime.
Focused deterrence programs use community support, alternative ways to solve problems, and police action to change bad behavior in high-risk groups.
Making it harder to drop out of school, since staying in school is linked to less violence.

Using evidence-based policies, working with the community, and tackling violence’s deep causes is the best way forward. This approach can greatly improve safety and lessen violent crime in our communities.

Intervention	Description	Evidence of Effectiveness
Stricter Alcohol Policies	Increase in alcohol taxes, reduction in alcohol outlets	Shown to reduce alcohol-related violence and other harms
Hot-Spot Policing	Focusing law enforcement resources on high-crime locations	Demonstrated reductions in violent crime in target areas
Focused Deterrence	Coordinated law enforcement, community engagement, and social service provision	Evidence of decreased gang violence and other serious crime
Raise Dropout Age	Increasing minimum age or grade for leaving school	Strong link between educational attainment and reduced violence

By using this community-engaged approach and these evidence-based policies in a holistic strategy, we can make big steps towards less violence and more safety in our communities.

“Reducing violence needs a full, team effort. We must tackle the social, economic, and structural issues that lead to it. A holistic strategy based on evidence-based policies and community engagement is key.”

Engage Key People with Empathy and Accountability

To reduce violence, we must reach out to high-risk individuals and groups with empathy and accountability. Community outreach workers are key in this effort. They help solve conflicts, connect people to important services, and act as links between the community and those who feel left out.

Cognitive behavioral interventions are also crucial. They help even the most hurt individuals start to heal and choose better paths. By changing negative thought patterns and behaviors, these programs help people stop seeking revenge and make better choices.

Outreach and Intervention Programs

Deploy community outreach workers to build trust and connect high-risk individuals to resources
Implement cognitive behavioral interventions to address the root causes of violent behavior
Offer comprehensive support services, including job training, mental health counseling, and addiction treatment

Focused Deterrence Strategies

Focused deterrence strategies work well in stopping future violence and ending cycles of revenge. They mix specific supports with strict rules. This sends a strong message that violence won’t be accepted, while showing ways for individuals to change for the better.

Identify and engage the high-risk individuals driving violence in the community
Offer a combination of services and accountability measures tailored to their specific needs
Consistently communicate the consequences of continued violence and the opportunities for change

By using empathy, community-based programs, and focused deterrence, we can reach key people and stop the cycle of violence in our communities.

Address Key Locations Using Place-Based Policing and Investment

Fighting violence needs a complex plan that focuses on high-crime spots. Place-based policing and investing in the community can break the cycle of violence. This approach helps make areas safer.

Problem-Oriented Policing

Working together, police and locals are key to solving crime issues. By tackling the root causes of crime, we can stop violence. For instance, the Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS) cut crime and 911 calls in certain areas.

Environmental Crime Approaches

Environmental crime approaches also help calm violent spots. Projects like cleaning-and-greening and fixing up areas make a big difference. In Boston, the Safe Street Teams (SST) program cut violent crimes in certain areas.

Long-term targeted investments in things like education and healthcare are crucial. These efforts, along with a focused policing and community safety plan, can bring real change to tough neighborhoods.

Program	Key Findings
Operation Ceasefire (Boston)	Statistically significant reductions in youth homicide, citywide gun assaults, calls for service, and recovered new guns
Hot Spots Policing	Effective for reducing overall crime and promising for reducing specific offenses like violent, property, public order, and drug and alcohol offenses
Comprehensive Anti-Gang Initiative (CAGI)	Significant reduction in gun homicides related to gang crime in cities where the initiative was implemented

“Place-based policing, combined with targeted investments in the community, can be an effective strategy to disrupt the cycle of violence in high-crime areas.”

Place Responsibility for Violence Reduction at the Top

Every city should have a permanent violence reduction unit in the mayor’s office to tackle high crime rates. These units offer direct services, manage funds, and lead anti-violence efforts citywide. Their success depends on mayoral leadership and good performance management of these violence reduction units.

Mayors can lead a coordinated, data-driven effort against violence by taking charge of these units. They should have top leaders reporting to the mayor. This ensures clear visibility, accountability, and quick access to key decisions.

Managing these units well is key. Focusing on results like lives saved, not just programs, can lead to lasting change. Regularly checking performance and adjusting strategies helps improve their impact and community outcomes.

“Every city confronting high rates of violent crime should have a permanent violence reduction unit operating within the mayor’s office, with senior leadership reporting directly to the mayor.”

With dedicated violence reduction units and strong mayoral leadership, cities can fight violence more effectively. By putting this effort at the top, mayors show they care about safety. This approach can lead to real, lasting cuts in violence.

Emphasize Healing with Trauma-Informed Approaches

Gun violence hits the poor and marginalized hard, causing post-traumatic stress and polyvictimization more than war veterans. We must focus on healing with trauma-informed care. This means understanding trauma’s effects and offering full support to those hurt by violence.

These approaches change the question from “What’s wrong with you?” to “What happened to you?” They show how abuse, neglect, and violence can lead to serious health issues and risky behaviors. By using trauma-informed care, healthcare workers can connect better with their patients. This could lead to better health outcomes and save money on healthcare and social services.

Creating a trauma-informed system means giving patients power, choice, and trust. It’s key to ending violence and helping victims recover and succeed.

“Trauma-informed care shifts the focus from ‘What’s wrong with you?’ to ‘What happened to you?’”

Trauma-Informed Strategies in Action

Across the country, places are using trauma-informed strategies to help victims and communities:

The Violent Crime Reduction Operations Guide shares crime-fighting methods, like trauma-aware interviews for police.
The Vicarious Trauma Toolkit supports first responders in dealing with their own trauma.
The Pathways Toward Collective Healing document shows how five communities are using trauma-informed care during violence.
Trauma-aware police tactics fight against intimidation and revenge in victims and communities.
The IACP’s work on police responses to kids exposed to violence tackles childhood trauma.

By using trauma-informed methods, communities can fully support those hurt by violence. This helps with healing and stops the cycle of being re-victimized.

Invest in Anti-Violence Workforce Development

Reducing violence means investing in an anti-violence workforce. This includes community-based organizations and others fighting violence. It’s key to build their capacity, skills, and long-term success. This can be done through training, technical help, and funding for growth and professional development.

Studies show we need a strong anti-violence team. Violence is often found in poor, neglected areas with more people of color. Poverty, alcohol outlets, empty buildings, and income gaps are linked to more violence. Helping community groups and their teams can tackle these deep issues.

Cities like Indianapolis and Philadelphia have shown how to build an anti-violence team. Indianapolis moved safety grants to job training, mentoring, and housing in high-crime areas. Philadelphia added funding for jobs and career support in community efforts. These efforts show how local groups and their teams can fight violence’s deep causes.

By focusing on anti-violence workforce development, leaders can make sure those fighting violence have what they need. They’ll have the resources, skills, and support to lower violence and make communities safer and stronger.

“Neighborhood attachment and social cohesion are associated with lower rates of violent crime, advocating for community cohesion and social relationships to alleviate violence.”

Set Aside Funding for New Stakeholders and Strategies

Dealing with community violence reduction funding is tough. It needs a mix of old and new ways to work. Cities should save money for new ideas and to learn from what works. This keeps them ready for changes in violence and community needs.

The Best Practices for Training Frontline Violence Intervention Workers brief shows why violence work is a health job. It needs special skills and standards. Giving money to this special group makes violence reduction better.

The Women in Policing: Breaking Barriers and Blazing a Path report talks about women in police work. More women in police can bring new ideas to fight community violence.

The Police Recruitment and Retention for the New Millennium report looks at how police keep and hire officers. Helping officers feel good and grow can make a strong police force. This helps cities improve their violence reduction work.

Funding Source	FY 2023 Enacted	FY 2024 Proposed	Change
Office on Violence Against Women (OVW)	$1.0 billion	$1.0 billion	$159.0 million increase
Office of Justice Programs (OJP) Discretionary Funding	$2,937.8 million	$3,373.9 million	15.1% increase
Office of Justice Programs (OJP) Mandatory Funding	$2,037.0 million	$2,283.0 million	11.9% increase

These budget plans show the government’s big support for violence reduction funding. They help both old and new ways to fight community violence. By working with new groups and always improving, cities can use these funds well. They can make plans that really help their communities.

“Addressing the complex challenge of community violence requires a commitment to funding new stakeholders and strategies, in addition to supporting proven approaches.”

Conclusion

This article presents a roadmap for reducing violence in the U.S. It offers strategies that cover alcohol policies, policing, education, and trauma care. These steps can help save lives and tackle violence at its roots.

To make these comprehensive violence reduction plans work, strong leadership is key. It also needs policy implementation from different sectors. And, it must focus on community needs and use data to guide decisions.

Working together is essential. Government, community groups, and advocates must share knowledge and work as one. This teamwork is vital for effective cross-sector collaboration in fighting violence.

As communities act on these suggestions, they must stay focused on their goal: a safer, fairer future. By keeping their eyes on saving lives and improving everyone’s well-being, they can lead the way. They can show other places how to reduce violence and build a peaceful future.

FAQ

What are some effective policy recommendations for reducing violence?

To reduce violence, we suggest several strategies. These include stricter alcohol rules, focusing police efforts, and raising the school dropout age. It’s also key to set clear violence reduction goals and identify key violence drivers.

Creating citywide plans and engaging high-risk individuals are also important. Addressing problem locations and emphasizing trauma-informed approaches can help. Investing in anti-violence programs and funding new strategies is crucial too.

How can stricter alcohol policies help reduce violence?

Stricter alcohol rules have been linked to less gun violence. Higher taxes on alcohol and fewer outlets can help. South Dakota’s 24/7 Sobriety program shows how alcohol offenders can be helped, leading to less violence.

What is hot-spot policing and how does it help reduce violence?

Hot-spot policing targets high-crime areas with more police presence. It works by partnering with the community to tackle crime hotspots. This approach has been shown to cut crime without pushing it elsewhere and is welcomed by the community.

What is focused deterrence policing and how does it work?

Focused deterrence policing targets specific crime issues, like gang violence. It warns individuals of legal and community consequences of violence. Offering social services as alternatives to violence has proven effective in reducing crime.

How can keeping kids in school longer help reduce violence?

Keeping kids in school longer can lower crime rates. A study found that extra time in school changes behavior for the better. This shows how education can help fight violence.

What should be the primary goal of any anti-violence effort?

The main goal should be to prevent lethal violence. City leaders should aim for a 10% drop in homicides and shootings each year. Tracking real results is key to measuring progress and keeping everyone accountable.

How can cities identify the key drivers of violence?

Cities must analyze the problem to find the main causes of violence. This includes looking at crime data and social networks. Working with street outreach workers helps confirm these findings and guide action.

What should a citywide plan for reducing violence include?

A city plan must be strategic and involve many groups. It should focus on the most at-risk areas and people. Using SMART goals and partnerships between police and communities is important for success.

How can cities engage individuals and groups at the highest risk of violence?

Engaging at-risk groups requires empathy and accountability. Outreach workers can help prevent violence and connect people to services. Cognitive behavioral therapy and focused deterrence strategies can also help reduce violence.

How can cities address violent micro-locations?

Addressing violent areas needs a mix of policing and investment. Working with residents and improving the environment can help. Long-term efforts in education and other areas are also key to reducing crime.

How can cities ensure long-term accountability for violence reduction efforts?

Cities should have a violence reduction unit in the mayor’s office. These units should manage services, funding, and coordination. Rewarding outcomes is key to their success over time.

Why is it important to emphasize healing through trauma-informed approaches?

Gun violence hits the poor and marginalized hard, causing trauma. Trauma-informed approaches are vital for healing and breaking cycles of violence. Understanding trauma and providing support is essential for recovery.

Why is it important to invest in the development of an anti-violence workforce?

Reducing violence needs a skilled workforce. Investing in community groups and training is crucial. This helps build a strong anti-violence team for the long term.

Why is it important to set aside funding for new stakeholders and strategies?

Fighting violence requires trying new approaches and funding new groups. Setting aside money for innovation helps. This keeps strategies fresh and responsive to changing violence patterns.

Source Links

6 proven policies for reducing crime and violence without gun control – https://www.vox.com/2016/2/15/10981274/crime-violence-policies-guns
Violent Crime Reduction Roadmap | Introduction | Office of Justice Programs – https://www.ojp.gov/violent-crime-reduction-roadmap/introduction
Saving Lives: Ten Essential Actions Cities Can Take to Reduce Violence Now – Council on Criminal Justice – https://counciloncj.org/10-essential-actions/
Study shows stricter alcohol policies are associated with reduction in homicides – https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-06-stricter-alcohol-policies-reduction-homicides.html
Do Changes to the Alcohol Retail Environment Reduce Interpersonal Violence? – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9672597/
Hot spots policing | Youth Endowment Fund – https://youthendowmentfund.org.uk/toolkit/hot-spots-policing/
Hot spots policing | College of Policing – https://www.college.police.uk/guidance/hot-spots-policing
Hot spots policing of small geographic areas effects on crime – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8356500/
Focused Deterrence – https://www.rand.org/pubs/tools/TL261/better-policing-toolkit/all-strategies/focused-deterrence.html
Microsoft Word – Pulling Levers skeptic – Second edition update.docx – https://scholar.harvard.edu/files/cwinship/files/pulling_levers_skeptic_-_second_edition_update.pdf
4. Provide Opportunities for Children and Youth – https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh176/files/action/sec4.htm
PDF – https://www.apa.org/pubs/reports/zero-tolerance.pdf
Primary prevention interventions for reducing school violence – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6464091/
Law enforcement strategies to reduce violence – https://www.police1.com/chiefs-sheriffs/articles/law-enforcement-strategies-to-reduce-violence-wItHuxvLO0IHLEEk/
Saving Lives in America: 988 Quality and Services Plan – https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/saving-lives-american-988-quality-service-plan.pdf
Violent Crime Reduction Roadmap | Action 2. Identify the key people and places driving the violence. | Office of Justice Programs – https://www.ojp.gov/violent-crime-reduction-roadmap/action-2
Violent Crime Reduction Roadmap | Action 3. Create a citywide plan for engaging key people and places. | Office of Justice Programs – https://www.ojp.gov/violent-crime-reduction-roadmap/action-3
Vital City | 20 Strategies for Reducing Crime in Cities – https://www.vitalcitynyc.org/articles/twenty-strategies-for-reducing-crime-in-cities
A Roadmap for Violence Reduction – https://www.nlc.org/article/2022/02/08/a-roadmap-for-violence-reduction/
Trends in Homicide: What You Need to Know – Council on Criminal Justice – https://counciloncj.org/homicide-trends-report/
Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime – https://www.justice.gov/d9/pages/attachments/2021/05/26/comprehensive_strategy_for_reducing_violent_crime_memo.pdf
Workplace Violence – Overview | Occupational Safety and Health Administration – https://www.osha.gov/workplace-violence
Relationships, resources, and political empowerment: community violence intervention strategies that contest the logics of policing and incarceration – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10149693/
Relentless empathy: When hate demands critical leadership – https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/relentless-empathy-critical-leadership-times-hate-mcintyre
Comprehensive Strategies for Bullying Prevention: Empathy, Inclusion, and Accountability – https://tablesaltgroup.com/2024/06/03/bullying-prevention-in-schools-and-communities/
Violent Crime Reduction Roadmap | Action 10. Commit to continuous improvement based on data, evidence, and peer-to-peer learning. | Office of Justice Programs – https://www.ojp.gov/violent-crime-reduction-roadmap/action-10
5 Ways States Can Reduce Violent Crime – Tools for States to Address Crime – https://projects.csgjusticecenter.org/tools-for-states-to-address-crime/5-ways-states-can-reduce-violent-crime/
Violent Crime Reduction Roadmap | Action 1. Set a clear goal: commit to saving lives by stopping violence. | Office of Justice Programs – https://www.ojp.gov/violent-crime-reduction-roadmap/action-1
Community-Based Responses to Reducing Violent Crime – https://www.policeforum.org/CrimeReductionTTA
Violent Crime Reduction Roadmap | Action 7. Emphasize healing with trauma-informed approaches. | Office of Justice Programs – https://www.ojp.gov/violent-crime-reduction-roadmap/action-7
Key Ingredients for Successful Trauma-Informed Care Implementation – https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/programs_campaigns/childrens_mental_health/atc-whitepaper-040616.pdf
Want to reduce violence? Invest in place. | Brookings – https://www.brookings.edu/articles/want-to-reduce-violence-invest-in-place/
Recommendations for Workforce Development Programs Serving Domestic Violence Survivors – https://www.urban.org/sites/default/files/2023-06/Recommendations for Workforce Development Programs Serving Domestic Violence Survivors.pdf
Violent Crime Reduction Roadmap | Action 8. Invest in anti-violence workforce development. | Office of Justice Programs – https://www.ojp.gov/violent-crime-reduction-roadmap/action-8
Microsoft Word – OVW FY2023 Narrative – Presidents Budget Submit 3-14-22 Final Cleared – https://www.justice.gov/file/1217541/dl?inline=
FY 2024 Office of Justice Programs Budget Performance Summary Section II – https://www.justice.gov/d9/2023-03/ojp_fy_24_budsum_ii_omb_cleared_3.07.23.pdf
9 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS | Violence in Families: Assessing Prevention and Treatment Programs – https://nap.nationalacademies.org/read/5285/chapter/11
Vip¥Fact_E – https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/documents/violence-prevention/wrvhrecommendations.pdf?sfvrsn=a29ddb6f_2

July 13, 2024

Effective Community Violence Prevention Strategies

In FY2022, the Department of Justice started the Community Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative (CVIPI). This was a big step towards stopping violent crime in communities. It supports programs that work well and are based on partnerships between many groups.

These groups include community residents, local agencies, victim services, and more. The goal is to make communities safer by using evidence-based methods. This approach helps build up community strength and works alongside the police.

Key Takeaways

The CVIPI initiative represents a historic federal investment in community-based violence intervention and prevention programs.
These comprehensive, evidence-based programs focus on partnerships between community stakeholders to address the root causes of violent crime.
Community violence intervention strategies aim to reduce violent crime and build community infrastructure as a complement to law enforcement.
Effective community violence prevention programs have shown promising results in reducing gun violence and homicides within the first 6-12 months of implementation.
Targeted public health solutions and community engagement are crucial for bringing effective violence prevention strategies to scale.

Introduction to Community Violence Prevention

Gun violence in places like streets, parks, and homes deeply affects the community. It causes trauma not just for those hurt, but also for those who see or know them. This is especially true in poor, segregated areas with few job chances. These places have faced racism and unfair policies for a long time.

Understanding the Issue of Community Gun Violence

Black Americans face gun violence at a much higher rate than whites, 14 times more. This shows the deep racial issues behind community violence.

Disproportionate Impact on Underserved Communities

Just 1.5% of the population lives in these poor areas, yet they see 26% of all gun deaths. For young Black and Latino men, murder is a leading cause of death. They face 3 to 7 times the risk of white peers, says the CDC.

Statistic	Value
Firearm Homicide Victims from 1.5% of the Population	26%
Risk of Homicide for Young Black Men	3-7 times higher than white peers
Risk of Homicide for Young Latino Men	3-7 times higher than white peers

These facts show how critical it is to tackle gun violence with strong violence prevention plans. We need to fix the social, economic, and racial issues causing this crisis.

“Positive parent-youth relationships, academic success, and feeling connected at school can help stop youth from getting involved in gun violence, the Seattle Social Development Project found.”

The Need for Comprehensive Intervention and Prevention Efforts

For years, we’ve mainly used policing and jail to fight gun violence in poor areas. But, this hasn’t worked well. Now, we’re trying something new. Community violence intervention programs aim to lessen gun violence by working directly with people involved in it.

These community violence intervention programs work best when cities and states use a public health approach to prevention strategies. This means working together with community leaders, government, and health experts. They focus on the deep reasons behind violence and help individuals and families.

Young people, especially in Black and Latino communities, face a lot of violence. In 2021, over 15,000 young people died from homicide. Also, more than 700,000 young people went to the hospital every year for violence injuries.

“Addressing social and economic factors in people’s lives may help prevent community violence in current and future generations.”

Working together is key for community violence prevention. This includes government, justice, housing, health, and community groups. These efforts can really make a difference. They tackle the big issues that lead to violence and help people get the support they need.

Key Statistics	Impact
Homicide is the second leading cause of death for youth ages 10 to 24, and the third leading cause of death for people 25 to 34.	Community violence disproportionately affects young people, especially in marginalized communities.
Black, American Indian and Alaskan Native, and Hispanic/Latino individuals experience higher rates of homicide compared to other racial and ethnic groups.	Systemic inequities and social determinants of health contribute to higher rates of violence in certain communities.
Living in communities experiencing violence is linked to an increased risk of developing chronic diseases and can hinder engagement in healthy behaviors.	Community violence has far-reaching consequences, impacting individual and community health and well-being.

By focusing on community violence intervention and prevention strategies, we can stop the cycle of trauma. This helps build safer, healthier neighborhoods for everyone.

Strategies for Addressing Community Violence

To tackle community violence, we need a plan that covers many areas. Using data and getting the community involved is key. By focusing on those most at risk and using trusted voices, we can stop violence and make lasting changes.

Data-Driven Identification of High-Risk Individuals

Stopping violence starts with finding out who is most likely to be involved. This lets us help them before things get worse. It’s about understanding the reasons behind violence and offering support where it’s needed most.

The Department of Violence Prevention (DVP) in Oakland, California, works on preventing violence by helping families and healing communities.
DVP’s plan for 2016-2020 includes many services like healing programs, helping victims of gender-based violence, and working on gun violence.
Dr. Holly Joshi leads DVP with a strong background in stopping violence and working with communities. She used to run MISSSEY, an organization for survivors of violence.

Engaging with Credible Messengers and Community Outreach

Working with trusted community members is vital. They can reach out to those at high risk in a way that works. These people can help change behaviors and stop violence from happening.

Program	Key Findings
Cure Violence	After eight tests over 13 years, it showed big drops in shootings and killings.
Becoming a Man (BAM)	Men in this program were 50% less likely to be arrested for violent crimes. They were also 35% less likely to be arrested overall and 25% more likely to stay in school, graduating on time more often.
READI Chicago	Participants had 79% fewer arrests for shootings and homicides. This program really helped reduce violent acts.

By using data and credible voices, we can fight violence together. This approach helps us make real, lasting changes in our communities.

The Gun Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS)

The Gun Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS), also known as Ceasefire or Focused Deterrence, is a detailed plan to fight community gun violence. It uses data to find out who is most likely to be involved in gun violence. Then, it offers specific help to meet their needs.

Core Components of GVRS

The GVRS has four main parts:

Data-Driven Identification: It uses detailed data to find out who is most at risk of gun violence.
Direct Communication: It talks directly to these high-risk individuals. The goal is to show them the community’s stance against violence and the risks it brings.
Intensive Services and Support: It offers a wide range of social services and life coaching to help these individuals change their paths.
Focused Enforcement: As a last step, it uses targeted law enforcement on those who keep engaging in violence, even after being offered help.

Since starting in January 2022, GVRS has sent out 386 custom messages. It has connected 162 individuals at risk to social services by April 2024. The program has shown to be effective, with a 3% recidivism rate and a 5% rate of being revictimized.

“The GVRS collaborative approach includes engagement with a small number of group-involved individuals most likely to be involved in violence. The strategy focuses on supporting high-risk individuals in their daily lives to communicate community norms supporting safety and success while implementing swift, certain, and legitimate sanctions for violence.”

Identification of Program Participants

The Gun Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS) uses data to find who is most likely to be in a shooting. It starts with a deep look at shootings and homicides over two to three years. This is called a Gun Violence Problem Analysis.

Then, Shooting Reviews are done every week to check out each shooting. These reviews spot shootings likely to lead to more violence. They help find people who might start or get caught in a cycle of revenge.

Gun Violence Problem Analysis

The Gun Violence Problem Analysis is key to the GVRS. It looks at many things, like:

Where and when shootings happen
Who gets hurt and who shoots
What kind of weapons are used
How violence might keep happening

Shooting Reviews and Risk Assessment

Shooting Reviews help spot who’s most likely to get caught in violence next. They look at:

What happened during each recent shooting
If there’s a chance of more violence
Who might get hurt or start trouble

By using the Gun Violence Problem Analysis and Shooting Reviews, the GVRS can pinpoint who’s most at risk. This helps in making plans to stop violence before it starts.

Key Components	Description
Gun Violence Problem Analysis	Deep look at past shootings and homicides to spot patterns and risks
Shooting Reviews	Weekly check of recent shootings to see if they might lead to more violence and find at-risk people
Risk Assessment	Combining insights from analysis and reviews to see who’s most likely to be involved in violence

Direct and Respectful Communication

Stopping community violence often means talking directly and with respect to those at high risk. This way, they learn about the dangers and how to get help. Meetings called “Call-Ins” and “Custom Notifications” are used for this.

Call-Ins and Custom Notifications

Call-Ins gather high-risk people in a safe place to talk about violence and support options. It’s key to treat them with respect for these meetings to work. Custom Notifications offer the same message but in private talks with each person.

These methods help build trust and open communication. They give high-risk people a way to get the support they need. By being direct but respectful, programs can reach those most at risk and offer them better choices than violence.

“During an incident, information is as critically important to people as food or water. Successful warnings are those that are taken seriously and responded to in a timely and effective manner.”

How well these talks work depends on clear messages, trusted sources, and knowing the community well. By customizing their messages, programs can better engage with their audience.

As the U.S. faces gun violence, talking directly and respectfully to those at risk is crucial. This method helps build trust, connects people with important services, and can greatly improve safety.

Provision of Services and Support

After a Call-In or a Custom Notification, people at very high risk of gun violence get connected to services and support. The key is building a strong, trusting bond with a Life Coach or Violence Intervention Worker. These Credible Messengers have gone through similar things and can really connect with the high-risk individuals. This bond is the heart of the help given.

Life Coaches and Violence Intervention Workers, or Credible Messengers, are key in offering services and support. They’ve faced similar challenges, which helps them connect deeply with clients. They guide and mentor with a personal touch.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Programs

Along with life coaching, the program gives weekly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) sessions. CBT helps people change negative thoughts and actions linked to violence. It gives clients tools to make better choices and stop the cycle of violence.

Service	Description
Life Coaches and Credible Messengers	Individuals with similar lived experiences who develop intensive, personal relationships with high-risk clients to provide guidance and mentorship.
Financial Incentive Stipends	Monthly stipends provided to clients for achieving certain milestones as part of the program.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)	Weekly therapy sessions aimed at identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to violence.

“The Life Coaches and Credible Messengers are the heart and soul of our violence prevention efforts. They build trust, provide guidance, and help our clients envision a better future for themselves.”

Focused Enforcement as a Last Resort

The Gun Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS) aims to reduce police presence by focusing on serious crimes. This means police avoid minor infractions and tactics that cause distrust. It’s all about building trust with the community.

For those who don’t stop violence, police and others keep a close watch. This is only done after someone has been violent. It’s seen as a last option.

This method is chosen to improve trust between police and the public. Heavy policing has often made things worse. By focusing on serious crimes, the GVRS shows it cares about safety and listens to the community.

In cities that have tried this, results are good. For instance, Boston saw a 63% drop in youth homicides. Oakland had 31% fewer gun homicides and 43% less group shootings.

Even so, using police power is a last choice in fighting violence. The GVRS wants to work with the community for safety and to stop violence.

Metric	Impact
Homicide clearance rates	Declined from 82% in 1976 to 55% in 2019, and further to 50% in 2020
Youth homicide reduction in Boston through focused deterrence	63%
Reduction in gun homicides in Oakland through focused deterrence	31%
Reduction in group-involved shootings in Oakland through focused deterrence	43%
Increase in percentage of homicides involving firearms from 2019 to 2020	73% to 77%
Clearance rate disparity based on victim race	63% for white victims, 47% for Black victims

Evaluating the Effectiveness of GVRS Programs

Group Violence Intervention (GVRS) programs work well when used right. They cut down on community violence by focusing on high-risk individuals. They do this through direct talks, offering help, and using enforcement only when needed.

In Baltimore’s Western District, GVRS made a big difference. Homicides fell by 20%, and non-fatal shootings dropped by 70% in October last year. Over seven years, these numbers went down by 50% and 80% respectively. These results show how GVRS can really help reduce violence.

“Approximately 64% of gun violence in Baltimore happens in the initial districts where the Group Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS) was implemented.”

Baltimore’s crime rates stayed the same in 2022 as in 2021. But, the GVRS pilot helped prevent a 5% increase in violent crimes. This shows how important evidence-based strategies like GVRS are in fighting violence.

Baltimore is expanding GVRS to all police areas by mid-2024. The goal is to spread the success seen in the Western District. This will help communities hit hard by gun violence.

Community Violence Intervention Programs in Action

In the U.S., community violence intervention (CVI) programs are changing lives. They work to stop the cycle of violence. They do this by helping those most at risk, offering support, and building community partnerships.

Successful CVI Implementations

The Center for Gun Violence Solutions at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health is leading the way. They’ve set up violence prevention offices in Colorado and North Carolina. They’ve also helped get funding and support for CVI in New Mexico and Virginia.

They even looked at Baltimore’s CVI efforts and gave city agencies advice on how to improve.

Other CVI programs are also making a big difference:

Los Angeles’s GRYD program has cut down on gang-related violence. It’s led to about 27 fewer gang homicides and 87 fewer gang assaults each year.
Massachusetts’ Safe and Successful Youth Initiative (SSYI) has lowered gun-related homicides by over 20% in nine years. It also stopped over 800 violent crimes each year.

These programs show how working together can make a big impact. They involve law enforcement, service providers, and the community.

“In most cities, just 4 percent of city blocks account for roughly half of all violence.”

CVI programs focus on high-risk areas and people. This approach has led to a big drop in violent crimes. As more places use these methods, we could see a big change in safety and well-being.

The Role of Community Engagement and Partnerships

Effective programs to stop community violence need a lot of effort from many people and leaders. The Office of Justice Programs is working with others to give places the help they need to fight violence. They are doing this by working together.

This means working with people who live in the community, local government, groups that help victims, and others. By getting everyone involved, these efforts aim to find new ways to deal with gun violence in communities.

Studies show that getting communities involved is key to reducing violence among young people. Sharing power with partners is important for different levels of involvement. The Nashville Urban Partnership Academic Center of Excellence shows how working together can help prevent violence.

Looking at how power is shared among partners shows how different groups get involved. The level of involvement affects how well partnerships work and last. It also affects how well new, proven practices are used.

Engagement Level	Key Characteristics	Implications for Partnerships
Community Initiation	Community-driven, grassroots efforts	Potential for greater community ownership and sustainability
Collaboration	Shared power and decision-making among partners	Increased likelihood of adopting evidence-based practices

By getting people involved and working together, these efforts aim to find new ways to fight community gun violence.

Community Violence Prevention Initiatives and Public Policy

The Department of Justice launched the Community Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative (CVIPI) in FY2022. This marks a big step in fighting community violence. It shows a shift towards using community groups alongside police to tackle gun violence.

Black Americans face a gun violence rate 14 times higher than whites. Programs aim to cut down gun violence in high-risk areas. They work with people caught in gun violence. Studies show these programs can save lives and lessen trauma.

States that have adopted Violence Intervention Program Funding policies	States that have not adopted Violence Intervention Program Funding policies
Alaska California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming	Alabama Arizona Arkansas Idaho Maine Mississippi New Hampshire Oklahoma South Dakota

The Center for Gun Violence Solutions at Johns Hopkins has helped set up violence prevention offices in Colorado and North Carolina. They’ve also helped with state-level funding for community violence programs in New Mexico and Virginia. The Center supports violence reduction strategies in Baltimore by evaluating programs and giving advice to city agencies.

Cities like Baltimore, Chicago, New York City, and Philadelphia have seen a drop in shootings and killings by over 30% with the Cure Violence model. Every dollar spent on this program can save cities up to $18 in medical and legal costs. Sacramento’s Advance Peace initiative cut down homicides and nonfatal shootings by 20% from 2018 to 2019, saving between $18 and $41 for every $1 spent.

Cities using group violence intervention have seen over 30% less shooting incidents. This shows how important these programs are in stopping gun violence. One shooting can lead to more, making it crucial to address this issue.

CVI programs are getting more attention after a rise in shootings and homicides. The American Rescue Plan gives funding for these efforts. Cities like New York and others are expanding or starting new CVI programs. With police budgets high, investing in community-based solutions is key.

“Every dollar invested in the Cure Violence program can lead to cities saving up to $18 in reduced medical and criminal legal system costs.”

Conclusion

Communities hit hard by gun violence face big challenges. But, research shows that with the right public health solutions, we can make a difference. These solutions can save lives and lessen the trauma caused by violence.

Effective strategies for stopping community violence are key. They need to be based on solid data and involve the community. This way, we can tackle the complex issue of violence head-on.

The effects of violence hit some communities harder than others. This highlights the need for quick action. By continuing to research and advocate, we can find and spread effective solutions. This includes the Gun Violence Reduction Strategy and programs that work directly with communities.

To make real change, we must work together. This means using a public health approach and building strong community partnerships. By doing so, we can create safer, fairer places for everyone. This approach is based on solid evidence and focuses on helping those most affected. It offers hope for ending violence and building a better future for all.

FAQ

What is the Community Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative (CVIPI)?

The Community Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative (CVIPI) is a new federal program started in FY2022. It aims to support programs that stop and prevent violence. These programs work together with community groups, local agencies, and others to help reduce violence.

How does community gun violence impact the broader community?

Gun violence in communities affects more than just the victims. It also impacts those who see or know the victims. This violence is often found in poor, segregated areas that have faced racism and unfair policies for a long time.

Why is a comprehensive, public health-based approach needed to address community violence?

Using police and prisons hasn’t solved the gun violence problem in these areas. It has even made things worse for some communities. Community violence programs aim to lessen violence by working with people likely to be involved in it.

How does the Gun Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS) work?

The GVRS uses data to find who is most at risk of violence. Then, it offers help and support to these individuals. This includes talking to them directly, providing services, and using enforcement as a last option.

What role do credible messengers and life coaches play in community violence intervention programs?

Credible messengers, or life coaches, are people who have gone through similar things as those they help. They build strong, trusting relationships with those at high risk. This is key to the success of these programs.

How effective are community violence intervention programs in reducing gun violence?

Programs like GVRS have shown to greatly reduce violence. For example, in Boston, youth homicides fell by 63% after the program started.

What is the role of community engagement and partnerships in successful community violence intervention programs?

For these programs to work well, cities and states need to invest in them. They should bring together many groups, including residents, agencies, and organizations. This teamwork is crucial for success.

Source Links

Community Violence Intervention | Center for Gun Violence Solutions – https://publichealth.jhu.edu/center-for-gun-violence-solutions/solutions/community-violence-intervention
Four Effective Strategies_V7 – https://nicjr.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Effective-Community-Based-Violence-Reduction-Strategies.pdf
Implementing Outreach-Based Community Violence Intervention Programs | Local Initiatives Support Corporation – https://www.lisc.org/our-resources/resource/implementing-outreach-based-community-violence-intervention-programs/
Introduction to Community-Based Violence Reduction Strategies for Schools | Local Initiatives Support Corporation – https://www.lisc.org/our-resources/resource/introduction-community-based-violence-reduction-strategies-schools/
Community violence intervention | Department of Public Health & Environment – https://cdphe.colorado.gov/colorado-gun-violence-prevention-resource-bank/prevention-approaches/community-violence
About Community Violence – https://www.cdc.gov/community-violence/about/index.html
Resilience-Informed Community Violence Prevention and Community Organizing Strategies for Implementation: Protocol for a Hybrid Type 1 Implementation-Effectiveness Trial – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10664006/
Department of Violence Prevention – https://www.oaklandca.gov/departments/violence-prevention
Preventing Community Violence – https://www.alleghenycounty.us/Services/Human-Services-DHS/DHS-News-and-Events/Accomplishments-and-Innovations/Preventing-Community-Violence
Baltimore, MD: Group Violence Intervention – https://www.nlc.org/resource/reimagining-public-safety-impact-updates/baltimore-md-group-violence-intervention/
Study shows early group violence reduction success in Baltimore City – https://www.wypr.org/wypr-news/2024-02-08/study-shows-early-group-violence-reduction-success-in-baltimore-city
RELEASE: Baltimore City Outlines Next Steps for Group Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS) Expansion – https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDBALT/bulletins/389799a
CVI Implementation Checklist | Office of Justice Programs – https://ojp.gov/topics/community-violence-intervention/implementation-checklist
Regional Violence Prevention Coalitions – Los Angeles County Office of Violence Prevention – http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/ovp/RVPC.htm
Community Engagement in Youth Violence Prevention: Crafting Methods to Context – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4824830/
Lesson 3. Communicating in an Emergency – https://training.fema.gov/emiweb/is/is242b/student manual/sm_03.pdf
Can Community Programs Help Slow the Rise in Violence? – https://www.propublica.org/article/are-community-violence-interruption-programs-effective
The HAVI — HAVI Applauds California Legislature’s Passage of Bill to Ensure Violence Prevention Services Are a Covered Benefit Under State’s Medicaid Program | Health Alliance For Violence Intervention – https://www.thehavi.org/california-passes-legislation-to-cover-violence-prevention-services-under-medicaid
California Violence Intervention and Prevention (CalVIP) Program – BSCC – https://www.bscc.ca.gov/s_cpgpcalvipgrant/
About Violence Prevention – https://www.cdc.gov/violence-prevention/about/index.html
Law enforcement strategies to reduce violence – https://www.police1.com/chiefs-sheriffs/articles/law-enforcement-strategies-to-reduce-violence-wItHuxvLO0IHLEEk/
Group Violence Intervention: Partnering with Community and Law Enforcement to Stop the Shooting | Office of Criminal Justice – https://www.phila.gov/2020-08-10-group-violence-intervention-partnering-with-community-and-law-enforcement-to-stop-the-shooting/
Focused Interruption furthers fight against gun violence in Madison – https://badgerherald.com/news/madison/2021/10/20/focused-interruption-furthers-fight-against-gun-violence-in-madison/
Baltimore to expand violence prevention strategy GVRS in early 2023 to Southwestern, Central police districts – https://www.baltimoresun.com/2022/12/06/baltimore-to-expand-violence-prevention-strategy-gvrs-in-early-2023-to-southwestern-central-police-districts/
Opinion Baltimore’s violence-prevention pilot was a success. Here’s what’s next. – https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/01/06/baltimore-violence-prevention-pilot-success/
Violence Intervention Programs | Everytown – https://www.everytown.org/solutions/violence-intervention-programs/
What Is Community Violence Intervention? – https://giffords.org/intervention/what-is-community-violence-intervention/
Trauma-informed Community Violence Intervention and Prevention | Local Initiatives Support Corporation – https://www.lisc.org/our-initiatives/safety-justice/our-strategies/trauma-informed-community-violence-intervention/
Levels of community engagement in youth violence prevention: the role of power in sustaining successful university-community partnerships – PubMed – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21203827/
The Impact of Community Engagement in Preventing Violent Incidents – Real Mom Life – https://www.realmomlife.com/the-impact-of-community-engagement-in-preventing-violent-incidents/
Community Violence Intervention Programs, Explained – https://www.vera.org/community-violence-intervention-programs-explained
Relationships, resources, and political empowerment: community violence intervention strategies that contest the logics of policing and incarceration – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10149693/
Changing the discourse about community violence: To prevent it, we have to talk about it – Berkeley Media Studies Group – https://www.bmsg.org/resources/publications/changing-the-discourse-about-community-violence-to-prevent-it-we-have-to-talk-about-it/
Designing Equitable Community Violence Intervention Strategies with Employment and Workforce Supports | CLASP – https://www.clasp.org/publications/report/brief/designing-equitable-community-violence-intervention-strategies-with-employment-and-workforce-supports/

July 13, 2024

Gun Violence: A Public Health Emergency in America

In 2022, over 48,000 Americans lost their lives due to gun injuries¹. This number highlights the critical public health issue of gun violence. The U.S. surgeon general, Dr. Vivek Murthy, has stated that gun violence is indeed a public health crisis. This is because there is a growing number of injuries and deaths from firearms in the country¹.

For kids aged 10 to 14, suicide by gun has risen almost 70%¹. Shockingly, children in the U.S. are more at risk of dying from gun wounds than in other nations¹. These facts underscore the urgent need to address the impact of gun violence.

Gun violence is causing widespread loss of life and immense grief in America. Over the past decade, deaths from gun-related injuries have been on the rise. Notably, firearm violence is now the top cause of death for kids and teenagers¹.

Background checks have prevented about 800 firearms from being sold to people under 21¹. Additionally, over 500 individuals, some connected to criminal groups, have faced charges related to gun trafficking and other offenses. This happened under significant gun safety laws¹.

In places where there has been a school shooting, the use of antidepressants among young people increases by more than 20%¹. Also, around half of U.S. teens fear the possibility of a shooting in their school¹.

Key Takeaways

Gun violence is a public health crisis in the US, with over 48,000 deaths in 2022.
Suicide by gun rates have increased by nearly 70% for those between 10-14 years old.
Children in the US are more likely to die from gun wounds compared to other countries.
Landmark gun safety legislation has led to charges against 500+ people involved in gun trafficking.
School shootings have a significant impact on youth mental health, with a 20% jump in antidepressant use.

Surgeon General Declares Gun Violence a Public Health Crisis

The U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, just made a big statement. He said gun violence is a public health crisis in the U.S². His warning is clear in a report titled “Firearm Violence: A Public Health Crisis in America.” It urges everyone to tackle this big issue together².

The numbers on gun deaths and injuries are very upsetting. In 2022, over 48,000 Americans lost their lives to gunshots²³. Beyond half were by suicide, and nearly 41% were murders³. Also, at least twice as many people were hurt but not killed by guns as those who died².

Alarming Statistics on Gun-related Deaths and Injuries

2022 saw over 48,000 gun deaths in America, about 132 each day. More than half were suicides³.
Each day, over 200 Americans need emergency care for gun wounds³.
Gun suicide among those under 35 has sadly become more common lately².
Compared to kids in other places, U.S. children face a much bigger risk of dying from guns²⁴.

Dr. Murthy is asking for more research on gun violence. He also wants doctors to talk more about gun safety with their patients². This effort is a crucial start in realizing how much harm gun violence does. And it shows why we need a strong public health approach to stop it².

This emergency needs our full attention, as Dr. Murthy points out. He believes we can and should fight firearm violence²³. By working together, including with lawmakers, health experts, and local leaders, we can make a difference. Our goal is to ensure everyone in our country can live without fear, no matter where they are²³.

“Firearm violence is a public health crisis, and it’s one that we have the power to address.” – Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General

Disproportionate Impact on Certain Communities

Gun violence hits hard across the U.S., but some groups suffer more⁵. The Black community and other people of color face the heaviest toll, notes show⁵⁶.

In 2022, the Black community had the highest rates of firearm homicides, especially among youth, reaching 27 per 100,000 people⁶⁷. Shockingly, almost half of all U.S. youth gun deaths were from the Black community, though they are just 14% of youth⁵.

It’s not just about homicide. Suicide by gun also affects some groups more. White people over 45 and American Indian/Alaska Natives under 45 saw high rates, too⁶⁷.

These gun violence gaps are tied to complex, deep issues. Things like poverty, unequal opportunities, and the effects of past racism play a big role⁵⁶. Tackling these problems head-on is key to solving the gun violence crisis in our country.

“More than half of U.S. adults or their family members have experienced a firearm-related incident throughout their lives, according to an April 2023 survey.”⁵

Gun violence’s impact reaches far beyond those directly hit. It spreads worry among 6 in 10 U.S. adults about their loved ones facing gun violence⁵. To fight this, we need deep-rooted, proven plans that focus on those facing the biggest risks and deal with the causes of these differences.

gun violence a public health emergency

Firearm violence is now a major public health issue in the U.S. It has caused huge loss, unbearable pain, and deep trauma for many⁸. About 6 out of 10 adults fear for a loved one’s safety due to guns⁸. This problem calls for immediate action, given the alarming numbers:

It’s the top cause of death for American kids and teens⁸.
In 2022, over 4,600 young people under 19 died from gun violence⁸.
More than half of U.S. adults know someone hit by a gun incident⁸.
Around 60% worry that they could lose a loved one to gun violence⁸.
Males face a much higher risk of dying from a gunshot wound than females⁸.
Blacks suffer the most from gun homicides, while whites over 45 top gun suicide stats⁸.
Over 50% of gun deaths in 2022 were suicides⁸.

This health crisis goes beyond just the physical harm. It’s causing a vast collective trauma in our communities⁸⁹. Well-known medical groups agree, warning us about the urgency of dealing with gun violence¹⁰.

It’s clear this issue affects various groups differently and hurts our children. So, a broad, complete solution is vital to overcome this fear and devastation⁸¹⁰⁹.

Impact on Children and Youth

Firearm violence is a huge problem for kids and teens in the U.S. In 2020, more kids died from gun injuries than car crashes, making it the top cause of death¹¹. This shows how serious the gun violence issue is for our youth.

Children’s mental health is a big concern too. Suicide by gun has gone up, especially among teens and those aged 10-14¹¹. It’s clear we need to take action on how gun violence and mental health impact our young people.

Fears and Worries about School Shootings

Many young Americans are afraid of school shootings¹¹. A recent study found nearly half of 14-17-year-olds fear a shooting at their school. And almost six in ten have thought about what they’d do in such a situation¹¹. The fear among kids is a serious effect of gun violence.

Guns hurting children impacts more than just the victims. After a deadly school shooting, antidepressant use by kids rose by over 20% in those areas¹¹. This shows the scars run deep and wide in communities touched by gun violence.

We must act to protect our young people from the gun violence crisis¹². We need stronger laws, better checks, and more support for mental health¹². These steps are crucial for our children and teens’ safety and well-being.

“Gun violence is a public health crisis that is robbing our children of their futures. We must take immediate action to protect our youth and break this cycle of tragedy.” – Surgeon General Vivek Murthy¹²

Facing gun violence’s impact on kids needs our quick attention¹³. Using a public health model, we can make a better and fairer future for all young Americans¹³.

Cascading Harm on Families and Communities

The effect of gun violence goes beyond the immediate victims. It touches witnesses, families, and the community at large, leaving lasting scars¹⁴.

Studies show that the families of gun violence victims often suffer from mental health problems, like depression and anxiety¹⁴. This deep psychological hurt can haunt families for a long time. It weakens their well-being and ability to bounce back from hardship.

Growing up in areas with a lot of gun violence can make people feel unsafe¹⁴. Nearly 79% of U.S. adults are stressed about mass shootings, and 33% avoid certain places because of fear¹⁴.

The harm from gun violence isn’t just about the person directly involved. It damages whole communities and shakes their sense of safety and peace, which everyone should have¹⁴. The nation needs to focus on these deep effects of gun violence as a key priority.

Statistic	Value
Percentage of U.S. adults who worry “sometimes,” “almost every day,” or “every day” about a loved one being a victim of firearm violence	Nearly 6 in 10¹⁴
Number of internal medicine physicians, related subspecialists, and medical students as members of the American College of Physicians (ACP)	161,000¹⁴
Number of countries worldwide where the ACP has members	More than 145¹⁴

Giving attention and taking action are crucial to fight the ripple effects of gun violence. We must care for the mental health of those affected. Plus, making our communities feel safer is a big step in the right direction¹⁴¹⁵.

The ACP leads the charge in pushing for solutions to stop firearm violence¹⁴. With more than 161,000 members globally, the ACP brings together minds from over 145 countries. They focus on policies, research, and events to curb gun violence¹⁴.

“The advisory from U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy on firearm violence in the United States is the first publication dedicated to this issue, and the ACP has been advocating for common-sense measures to address firearm violence for decades.”¹⁴

By discussing the far-reaching effects of gun crime and sharing the stories of those impacted, we hope to build safer communities. Communities where everyone feels secure and at peace, without fear of gun violence¹⁴¹⁵¹⁶.

Urgent Call for Action

The Surgeon General issued an advisory on tackling firearm violence¹⁷. It details a public health approach backed by evidence. This method includes more research, using prevention strategies, and offering better mental health support¹⁸.

Proposed Strategies and Policies

The advisory suggests multiple policy recommendations to combat gun violence as a public health crisis:

Enhancing data collection for better solutions¹⁸
Setting up community-focused violence intervention plans¹⁸
Making sure firearm storage is safe to lower accidents and deaths¹⁸
Expanding universal background checks and purchaser licensing¹⁸
Prohibiting assault weapons and big-capacity magazines for civilians¹⁸
Applying safety rules and testing to guns, treating them like other consumer products¹⁸
Boosting access to good mental health care and addiction treatment¹⁸

The advisory stresses the pressing need to act against the severe impact of gun violence in the U.S¹⁷¹⁸¹⁹.

“Gun violence has topped the causes of death for Americans 1 to 19 since 2020. It’s higher than deaths from car crashes, poisonings, and cancer.”¹⁷

Congress has been urged to toughen national gun regulations. This is because of the many deaths from gun violence in the past years¹⁷. Firearms should be regulated like other consumer items, including safety tests and warning labels, to make them safer.¹⁸

The strategies and policies in the advisory aim for a thorough and evidence-based response to the U.S. gun violence crisis¹⁷¹⁸¹⁹.

Firearm Violence and Mental Health

Gun violence strongly affects Americans’ mental health. More than half of gun deaths in 2022 were suicides. Adults 45 and older, especially White people, had the highest suicide rates. For younger ones, those of American Indian or Alaska Native heritage faced the most risk²⁰.

Vulnerable groups face a bigger mental health challenge, like veterans. In 2021, the suicide rate was much higher for veteran men and women. The guidance highlights the urgent need for better mental health care, especially for veterans and young people at risk²⁰.

Young people across the country are deeply impacted by gun violence. Around half of teenagers fear school shootings, with antidepressant use going up after such events. Doctors advise keeping guns safely locked to prevent accidents and suicides²⁰.

It’s vital to tackle the mental health effects of gun violence. Dr. Murthy suggests more research and better healthcare to teach about gun safety. Focusing on mental health care and gun safety can help the U.S. tackle this crisis better²⁰.

High veteran suicide rates and the effect on certain groups show a need for personalized mental health care. Dealing with this mental health crisis, made worse by gun violence, is key for a safer, stronger community²⁰.

Statistic	Data Point
Gun-related suicides increase	45% for individuals aged 15-24 and 68% for children aged 10-14 from 2012 to 2022²¹
Firearm homicide rate	Highest for Black people²¹
Firearm suicide rate	Highest for American Indian and Alaska Native people under the age of 45²¹
Mass shootings in the U.S. so far this year	247²¹
Mass shootings as a percentage of all gun violence deaths	Approximately 1%²¹
U.S. adults who worry about a loved one falling victim to firearm violence	Nearly 6 in 10²¹
Online gun buyers who can purchase a firearm without a background check	45%²¹
States and D.C. that require guns to be stored locked	16²¹
Guns used during unintentional firearm deaths among children and teens that were stored unlocked	76%²¹

“Addressing the mental health impact of firearm violence is crucial. Surgeon General Murthy advocates for increased gun violence research and healthcare system initiatives to educate patients on gun safety and proper storage during checkups.”

Firearm violence deeply harms mental health, requiring fast, solid solutions. By focusing on mental health support and safe gun practices, the U.S. can make its society safer and more resilient²⁰²²²¹.

Role of Healthcare Systems and Communities

The fight against gun violence hinges on strong healthcare systems and communities in America. Healthcare providers stand at the front, treating those hit by gun injuries and deaths daily²³. Every day, hospitals and health systems nationwide see the impacts of gun violence²³. Not securing guns can put lives at risk, making kids more likely to die by guns than from cancer or car accidents²³.

Healthcare actions to tackle this issue include Northwell Health’s nationwide push through Hospitals. Its goal is to get parents talking about safe gun storage with family and friends to prevent accidents²³. In 2016, Kaiser Permanente teams helped over 11 with gunshot injuries²⁴. They’re also putting money into researching how to prevent these injuries, with a $2 million investment in April 2018²⁴.

Communities are vital too, launching programs to prevent violence²⁴. Their focus is on issues like poverty, lack of education, and few mental health resources to stop gun violence at its core²⁴. By uniting, healthcare and local teams can make places safer, improve mental health care access, and better prevent violence where children learn²⁴.

Statistic	Impact
On average, seven children and teens are killed by firearms in the United States each day.	Highlighting the devastating effect of gun violence on the youth population.
Each month, 50 women are shot to death by intimate partners in the U.S.	Underscoring the disproportionate impact of gun violence on women, particularly in domestic violence situations.
African American men are 13 times more likely than white men to be shot and killed.	Illustrating the stark racial disparities in gun violence and the need for targeted, community-based interventions.

Addressing gun violence is a teamwork effort, involving healthcare, communities, and policy makers²⁴. By joining forces and using proven strategies, we aim for a safe future for everyone in the U.S²⁵.

“One in five adults reported having a family member killed by a gun, including suicides, and one in six have witnessed a shooting. Black adults experienced these incidents at a higher rate, with a third having experienced each.”²⁵

Both healthcare systems and communities must keep at it to fight gun violence, educating and implementing ways to prevent it. They also need to push for policies that keep the public safe and healthy²⁵.

Treating Firearms as Consumer Products

Unlike most things people buy, guns in the U.S. don’t have strict safety rules²⁶. This is different from toys, cars, and drugs that always go through safety checks. Guns have escaped from rules that have made other things safer, like cutting down smoking or car accidents²⁶.

The U.S. Surgeon General says we should think of guns as everyday items to boost safety. This might mean adding safety tests, using technology to prevent misuse, and putting big warnings about gun risks²⁷. Such steps could lower gun violence’s heavy toll, treating it as a serious health problem in the U.S²⁶²⁸²⁷..

“Firearms are unique among consumer products in the United States, as they are not subject to the same safety standards and oversight as other goods. Applying a public health approach and treating firearms as consumer products could lead to significant improvements in firearm safety and a reduction in the unacceptably high rates of gun-related deaths and injuries.”

By handling guns with the same care as we do with products we use every day, we can make a big difference²⁶²⁸²⁷. This means focusing on safety, improving the rules, and using new tech. This can help stop the public health crisis of gun violence, like we’ve seen in other areas of safety and health.

The advice to change how we see and deal with guns is loud and clear²⁶²⁸²⁷. Thinking of guns as products opens the way for smart solutions from both lawmakers and experts. This strategy aims to make guns safer, cut harm, and save lives in the end.

Conclusion

The Surgeon General has called gun violence a public health crisis. It needs urgent action. His advisory focuses on a public health way to tackle the problem, such as more research, community efforts, and changes in policies²⁹³⁰. We don’t need to wait for more research. We already know ways to make our world safer and help everyone live better.

Gun violence truly hits hard in the U.S. Over 48,000 lives were lost to gun wounds in 2022, and suicide by gun is growing fast among young Americans²⁹³¹. Children face higher risks here than in many other places. Gun violence is the top reason for their deaths²⁹³¹. Tackling this crisis needs everyone to work together, using ways laid out in the Surgeon General’s advice.

We must join hands to fight the causes of gun violence. This way, we can make our neighborhoods safer and stop tragic deaths. Let’s listen to the Surgeon General’s urgent plea to stop gun violence. Let’s do our part to keep our country safe from this threat.

FAQ

What has the U.S. Surgeon General declared about gun violence?

Gun violence is now a big health issue, said U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy. He linked this to the many injuries and deaths from guns in our country.

What are the alarming statistics on gun-related deaths and injuries?

In 2022 alone, over 48,000 people in America died because of guns. More than half were suicides. There were also deaths from homicides and other causes. Notably, nonfatal injuries from firearms might happen at least twice as often as deadly ones.

Which communities are disproportionately impacted by gun violence?

During 2022, the Black community saw very high firearm death rates, especially in younger people. Although Black youth are only 14% of the young population, they made up half of the youth gun deaths.

The suicide rate with firearms is higher for White people aged 45 or older. But for those under 45, American Indian or Alaska Native (AI/AN) people face a higher suicide rate.

How does gun violence impact the public health and collective trauma in America?

Growing up, we know that gun violence hurts our bodies. But its effects reach much further. Almost 6 in 10 adults fear for their family’s safety, worried about gun violence almost every day.

How does gun violence affect children and youth in America?

By 2020, more kids and teens died from guns than from car crashes. Suicide with guns is climbing, especially for young teens and those in their early 20s.

Kids are also afraid of shootings at school. This fear is very real and common.

What is the cascading harm of gun violence on families and communities?

After losing a loved one to a shooting, families often face more mental health problems. This includes things like depression and PTSD. People in areas with a lot of gun violence also worry about safety, with many scared to go out.

What strategies and policies are proposed to address the gun violence crisis?

To fight this, experts suggest better data on gun violence and more community programs. They also talk about safe gun storage and checks when buying a gun.

They’d like to see fewer powerful guns out there. And, they’re big on caring for mental health and tackling drug use.

How does gun violence impact mental health and suicide rates?

Over half of gun death in 2022 were suicides. White adults aged 45+ top this list, while American Indian or Alaska Native folks have the highest rate under 45.

Preventing guns from causing suicide is a big concern. Helping those who are very at risk is key.

What is the role of healthcare systems and communities in addressing the gun violence crisis?

Healthcare folks should talk about gun safety and share how to store guns safely. Communities need to stop violence before it starts, teaching and protecting at schools and beyond.

They also push for more mental health and addiction treatment that’s easy to get and good for everyone.

How can treating firearms as consumer products help address the crisis?

Firearms should meet safety standards like most products do, just as the advisory suggests. Making guns safer could really help lower the risk of accidents or harm.

Source Links

https://apnews.com/article/surgeon-general-gun-control-violence-deaths-murthy-24b53f1aaace068e0cb24ae809853f66 – US surgeon general declares gun violence a public health emergency
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/u-s-surgeon-general-murthy-declares-gun-violence-a-public-health-emergency – U.S. Surgeon General Murthy declares gun violence a public health emergency
https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/06/25/us-surgeon-general-declares-gun-violence-a-public-health-crisis/ – US surgeon general declares gun violence ‘a public health crisis’ • Oregon Capital Chronicle
https://www.yahoo.com/news/us-surgeon-general-declares-gun-090259096.html – US surgeon general declares gun violence a public health emergency
https://time.com/6991431/u-s-surgeon-general-declares-firearm-violence-a-public-health-crisis/ – Gun Violence Declared Public Health Crisis in the U.S.
https://www.ctpublic.org/2024-06-25/the-surgeon-general-declared-gun-violence-a-public-health-crisis-what-does-that-do – The surgeon general declared gun violence a public health crisis. What does that do?
https://health.wusf.usf.edu/npr-health/2024-06-25/the-surgeon-general-declared-gun-violence-a-public-health-crisis-what-does-that-do – The surgeon general declared gun violence a public health crisis. What does that do?
https://www.statnews.com/2024/06/25/gun-violence-public-health-crisis-surgeon-general-declaration/ – Surgeon general declares gun violence a public health crisis
https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2024-06-25/u-s-surgeon-general-declares-gun-violence-a-public-health-emergency – U.S. Surgeon General Declares Gun Violence a Public Health Emergency
https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/us-surgeon-general-declares-gun-violence-public-health-111395244 – US surgeon general declares gun violence a public health emergency
https://www.wabe.org/us-surgeon-general-declares-gun-violence-a-public-health-emergency/ – US surgeon general declares gun violence a public health emergency
https://fortune.com/well/2024/06/25/gun-violence-public-health-emergency-surgeon-general/ – U.S. surgeon general declares gun violence a public health emergency
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-06-surgeon-general-declares-gun-violence.html – US surgeon general declares gun violence a public health emergency
https://www.acponline.org/acp-newsroom/acp-supports-the-us-surgeon-general-firearms-advisory-on-the-public-health-crisis-of-firearm – ACP supports the U.S. Surgeon General firearms advisory on the public health crisis of firearm violence in the United States
https://abcnews.go.com/Health/us-surgeon-general-murthy-declares-gun-violence-public/story?id=111384222 – US Surgeon General Murthy declares gun violence ‘public health crisis’ in America
https://www.yahoo.com/news/us-surgeon-general-declares-firearm-111327706.html – Gun violence is a public health crisis, US surgeon general declares
https://www.newsweek.com/gun-violence-declared-public-health-crisis-sparks-conservative-outrage-1917193 – Gun violence declared public health crisis, sparks conservative outrage
https://www.komu.com/news/nationworld/us-surgeon-general-declares-us-gun-violence-an-urgent-public-health-crisis/article_dbad401f-3f5f-511a-b078-724b31147c88.html – US surgeon general declares US gun violence an urgent public health crisis
https://truthout.org/articles/us-surgeon-general-calls-gun-violence-a-public-health-crisis-and-urges-action/ – US Surgeon General Calls Gun Violence a “Public Health Crisis” and Urges Action
https://www.usnews.com/news/us/articles/2024-06-25/us-surgeon-general-declares-gun-violence-a-public-health-emergency – US Surgeon General Declares Gun Violence a Public Health Emergency
https://www.time.com/6991431/u-s-surgeon-general-declares-firearm-violence-a-public-health-crisis/ – Gun Violence Declared Public Health Crisis in the U.S.
https://www.fortune.com/well/2024/06/25/gun-violence-public-health-emergency-surgeon-general/ – U.S. surgeon general declares gun violence a public health emergency
https://www.aha.org/public-health-approach-to-addressing-gun-violence – Public Health Approach to Addressing Gun Violence | AHA
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK540805/ – Why Do Health Systems Have a Role? – Health Systems Interventions to Prevent Firearm Injuries and Death
https://publichealth.jhu.edu/center-for-gun-violence-solutions/research-reports/the-public-health-approach-to-prevent-gun-violence – The Public Health Approach to Prevent Gun Violence | Center for Gun Violence Solutions
https://www.npr.org/2024/06/25/nx-s1-5018625/surgeon-general-vivek-murthy-gun-violence-public-health-crisis – The surgeon general declared gun violence a public health crisis. What does that do?
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/06/25/gun-violence-public-health-crisis-surgeon-general/74168023007/ – Gun violence an ‘urgent’ public health crisis; surgeon general wants warnings on firearms
https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/ama-calls-gun-violence-public-health-crisis – AMA calls gun violence “a public health crisis”
https://www.wcvb.com/article/surgeon-general-declares-gun-violence-a-public-health-emergency/61248152 – US surgeon general declares gun violence a public health emergency
https://efsgv.org/learn/learn-more-about-gun-violence/public-health-approach-to-gun-violence-prevention/ – Public Health Approach to Gun Violence Prevention – The Educational Fund to Stop Gun Violence
https://www.fox13memphis.com/news/u-s-surgeon-general-declares-gun-violence-public-health-crisis/article_4621de16-32df-11ef-93c2-771cc58be83b.html – U.S. surgeon general declares gun violence a public health emergency

June 25, 2024