Anti-Gang Strategy for the Eastern District of Arkansas

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.

Arkansans for a Safer Arkansas, serving as the fiscal agent for the Eastern District of Arkansas, will use the grant to educate at-risk youth and youth in the criminal justice system on the penalties of gang activities and membership and to inform the community at large on how to recognize gang members and activities. The target area will be Pine Bluff/Jefferson County, and the Juvenile Court Judge has agreed to refer youth in the criminal justice system to the anti-gang program. Plans are to reinforce the anti-gang message through community presentations targeting youth 12 years of age and older. Presentations will also be made to local community groups, teachers, school counselors, parents, and city employees on methods to prevent and identify gang membership and activities.

NCA/NCF