Gun Crime Initiative in Western New York, 2007

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide commitment to reducing gun crime, links existing local programs together and provides them with necessary tools. PSN 1) takes a hard line against gun criminals, using every available means to create safer neighborhoods; 2) seeks to achieve heightened coordination among federal, state, and local law enforcement; and 3) emphasizes tactical intelligence gathering, more aggressive prosecutions, and enhanced accountability through performance measures. The United States Attorney in each federal judicial district will lead the offensive. The fiscal agent, in coordination with the PSN Task Force, will allocate funds throughout the community.

The Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) will use FY07 PSN funding to address gun crime by focusing on the problem of youth and guns across the Western District of New York. The PSN Task Forces will establish three areas as priority funding areas across the District, including the Buffalo and Rochester areas, which have had significant gun violence problems. A committee assisting RIT will request and review proposals to support work in the following areas: 1) Programs designed to provide alternatives to gangs, guns, and criminal activities; 2) Outreach and prevention services; and 3) Interventions designed to deter, discourage, and dissuade gun carrying and possession among youth.

NCA/NCF