Racine launching Violent Crime Reduction Initiative
RACINE - Racine city and county leaders held a meeting Thursday, May 26 to discuss how to decrease gun violence.
"I know that change we desire has to include us," said Tanya Wooden with Voice of Black Mothers United.
From mothers who lost their children to gun violence, to city and county leaders – those who took part in the meeting want change in Racine.
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"I’m committing to increasing transparency with the community when I am able on cases that have not been charged," Racine County District Attorney Patricia Hanson said.
During the meeting, Racine's Assistant Police Chief Alex Ramirez said the latest data shows a 42% increase in shots fired in 2022 compared to the same time in 2021.
"There’s been six homicides compared to three homicides compared to this time last year," said Ramirez.
Police said, in 2021, they hired a crime analyst who helps determine who, what, when and where crimes happen. Not everyone is sold on the initiative, and some in the crowd had questions.
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"How much of this is going to uplift the people who are trying to tell you every day that they need help – not more people pointing guns at them?" one person asked.
Racine County Executive Jonathan Delagrave stepped up to the podium.
"We’ve got to immediately inject confidence into the people of Racine County and the city of Racine that we’re committed to making it safe," he said. "It is your inherent right to live in a safe community and safe neighborhood. No matter where you live."
Other parts of the "Violence Crime Reduction Initiative" include community programs and engagement.
With the initiative, the question remains: Will there be success? Racine police said they will compare crime data from this year to next year. Community engagement is hard to measure, police said, but it is important for everyone to play a role and work together to help reduce crime.