What is the Statewide Gang Reduction Strategy?

The prevalence of gangs and gang-related violence in Florida is a growing threat to the safety and security of all Floridians. Law enforcement alone cannot stop the threats to public safety brought about by gang violence. In order to achieve real impact in the reduction and deterrence of gang-related crime and violence, targeted response must involve the active engagement of local and state leaders from the faith-based community, education, prevention and intervention organizations, the business community, criminal justice, government, and other concerned citizens.

In October 2007, my office initiated such a collaborative effort to develop a statewide Gang Reduction Strategy. This Strategy outlines a comprehensive plan for communities to develop specific solutions to dramatically reduce gang membership and gang-related activities by:

• Empowering youth to lead productive gang-free lives;
• Improving law enforcement suppression efforts; and,
• Addressing rehabilitation and re-entry issues.

The Strategy calls for the formation of seven Gang Reduction Task Forces throughout the state of Florida. It is an opportunity to bring together many partners who focus on the issues of gang activity and their related consequences. It is an opportunity to network and coordinate local and state agencies and organizations as Regions develop their specific plans for action. These partnerships are essential for meaningful solutions and success of this Strategy.

When we come together to implement proven strategies to influence the problems known to lead to gang crime and violence, we will be more likely to reduce gang membership and the consequences of gang-related activities. I would like to personally encourage you to be part of the solution; use this site to learn more about gangs in Florida and what we can do about it.