Baltimore’s annual murder rate has fallen to its lowest level in almost 50 years thanks to a unified violence-prevention strategy.
The city used American Rescue Plan funding to launch a data-driven focused deterrence program that targets individuals at highest risk of gun violence.
Case workers deliver personalized letters from the mayor offering social services and support, backed by the promise of prosecution if individuals decline help.
Collaboration among social workers, police, prosecutors, hospitals, schools, and community groups has built trust and improved outcomes.
About 95.7% of program participants have not been re-victimized and 97.7% have not committed new violent crimes.
The state’s attorney increased felony convictions for illegal gun possession while expanding re-entry and victim assistance services to avoid mass incarceration.
Federal cuts to community violence-intervention grants threaten the continuity and effectiveness of Baltimore’s proven model.
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