Award Information
Description of original award (Fiscal Year 2024, $296,696)
The Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program for the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the District of Colorado is a coordinated effort among its federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to address violent crime in different communities across the state. Based on current data concerning violent crime in the Target Enforcement Areas (TEAs), the USAO has determined that focused and strategic enforcement is the most direct way the PSN Program can contribute to community safety.
The USAO will address the increase in violence through prioritizing investigation, prosecution, and increased collaboration tailored to each TEA. Key characteristics of the plan include: 1) Enhancing the capability of task forces within TEAs to identify and prosecute individuals perpetrating the most violent acts; 2) Enhancing prevention resources and community engagement efforts, especially in TEAs.
Thirty percent of award funds will be allocated to violent crime gang task forces, to address the most significant increase in violence, largely attributable to street gangs or youthful hybrid gangs in the Denver Metro area. Funds will also be used to support subawards to community-based agencies to assist with the prevention and community engagement strategies within the TEAs and a research partner.