Working collaboratively to reduce juvenile gun crime in Boston
Abstract
In the late 1980s, a steep increase in juvenile homicides in Boston concerned residents and officials. Consequently, community organizations, local police and probation officers collaborated in implementing a "zero tolerance" policy for gun violence as well as building support systems for the city's youth. The collaboration significantly lowered the amount of juvenile gun crimes in the city. From the report, Less Hype, More Help: Reducing Juvenile Crime, What Works — and What Doesn't by Richard Mendel.Issue
In the late 1980s, youth gangs, fighting each other for drug territory, resulted in an increase in youth carrying guns. Boston suffered 152 homicides in 1990, whereas during most of the 1980s the homicide rate was less than 100 per year.Action
Leaders came together to build a comprehensive and aggressive approach to solving Boston's juvenile gun crime problem. Steps they took included:
- The local police department convened a Youth Violence Strike Force with 45 full-time police officers and 15 officials from other agencies.
- The strike force maintained a database on gang leaders and dangerous ex-offenders in the community.The strike force and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms initiated the Boston Gun Project. Together, they concentrated on the source of guns used in crimes and prosecuting individuals involved in illegal gun trafficking.
- Law officials began a "zero tolerance" policy for gun violence. Any gang member caught carrying guns or committing violent gun crimes were turned over for federal prosecution, which can carry far greater penalties than local statutes.
- Police officers and probation officers joined together for a project called Operation Night Light. The police and probation officers conduct joint evening patrols, making nighttime visits to the homes of high-risk probationers. Repeated probation violations result in a return to court and sometimes to jail.
- Boston created an Alternatives to Incarceration Network, which offers community-based supervision and positive support for less dangerous youth who would otherwise be confined in a detention center or prison.
- City-funded "streetworkers" and counselors from local youth agencies send clear messages that gunplay will no longer be tolerated.
- Community agencies like the Ella J. Baker House, a drop-in center for youth, provide positive youth activities.
- A Youth Service Providers Network works with youth referred by police in three of Boston's most troubled neighborhoods.
Citation
Mendel, Richard. Less Hype, More Help: Reducing Juvenile Crime, What Works -- And What Doesn't. American Youth Policy Forum: Washington, D.C. 2000. pp. 27-28.
http://www.nationalserviceresources.org/filemanager/download/public_safety/LessHypeMoreHelp.pdf (440 KB)