FFY24 District of Maryland Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative

In 2022, Maryland's violent crime rate was 398 incidents per 100,000 residents, slightly above the national average. While there was a modest decline in overall national violent crime, Maryland continues to face significant challenges, particularly related to gun violence and gang activity. Gang violence remains a major contributor, especially in cities like Baltimore, where disputes and drug trafficking drive much of the violence. This ongoing issue complicates efforts to enhance public safety despite some progress in reducing violent crime. 
 
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a key initiative to combat violent criminal organizations and gun violence in Maryland. Key partners in this effort include the United States Attorney's Office (USAO), Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy (GOCCP), Maryland Parole and Probation, federal investigative agencies, and local and state law enforcement as well as prosecutorial teams. The program employs data-driven approaches, using crime reporting systems like the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) and the Maryland State Police's central hub for UCR/NIBRS data, to identify crime trends and respond effectively. In 2022, Maryland reported a 1.6% increase in violent crime, with aggravated assault, robbery, and homicide being the most prevalent. The District of Maryland and the GOCPP have identified ten areas with violent crime rates significantly higher than the state average, including Baltimore City, Prince George's County, and Baltimore County. 
 
PSN Maryland will focus on dismantling criminal networks that fuel violent crime. These networks, often gang-related, operate across Maryland's 23 counties and Baltimore City, using violence and intimidation to further their criminal activities. PSN provides law enforcement with the tools to dismantle these organizations and enhance public safety statewide. 
 
GOCPP will serve as the fiscal agent and State Administering Agency (SAA) for Maryland's PSN allocation, ensuring the effective use of funds for law enforcement operations, gang task force support, and equipment procurement. GOCPP will oversee the implementation and effectiveness of PSN initiatives, collaborating closely with the USAO for the District of Maryland to meet program objectives. GOCPP will also manage a competitive grant process, ensuring transparency and rigor in awarding funds to eligible jurisdictions. The Maryland Statistical Analysis Center will conduct research and data collection to support PSN goals, ensuring the effective deployment of resources and compliance with award conditions. Subrecipients will submit quarterly progress reports, which GOCPP will review to assess program effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. PSN emphasizes four core elements to ensure program success: Community Engagement/Partnerships, Prevention and Intervention, Focused and Strategic Enforcement, and Accountability. The collaborative strategic use of these elements allows PSN to continue reducing violence and enhancing public safety across Maryland.