In an ongoing series, we’d like to continue highlighting Governor’s Crime Commission grant recipients. These federal funds are especially important this year in light of the economy, helping to support programs and initiatives from community groups, correctional agencies, and law enforcement agencies all aimed at keeping our communities safer.
The Statesville Police Department is putting their share of the grant money toward reducing gang violence. The Statesville-Iredell Gang Initiative will allow the department to hire two gang intelligence officers. Rather than simply attempt to reduce gang related crime on the street, these officers will be able to take a more strategic approach to decreasing the gang problem. SPD Assistant Chief Bill Halliburton remarked, “"It's not just patrolling around. We have a game plan. We have objectives and we have persons identified," he said. "Our department will be investing in smarter policing." (Mooresville Tribune, 6/3/09 <http://bit.ly/spdgrant>)
Job placement in the fiber-optic industry for 96 ex-gang members from Durham will be provided through a grant to the Fiber Optic Initiative of Triangle Citizens Rebuilding Communities. Counseling and training will be offered to individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to living a crime-free life.
The Tarboro Teens Against Gangs (T.A.G.) program received funding for putting on weekly events that provide an alternative to gang life for teenagers. The Parks and Recreation Department will sponsor basketball and football games, and host dances for at-risk youth. The program’s partners include the Edgecombe Public Schools, local faith based organizations, and law enforcement agencies.