DeKalb Police launching crime-reduction effort with DOJ partnership
DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. - The DeKalb County Police Department (DKPD) has announced its inaugural discussion aimed at reducing violent crime in local neighborhoods.
What we know:
This initiative is part of a new three-year Public Safety Partnership (PSP) between DKPD and the Department of Justice (DOJ), which was first announced in December. The PSP program helps communities use data-driven approaches to address crime, focusing on areas like crime analysis, gun violence, and technology. Over the course of the partnership, the DOJ will study DeKalb County’s efforts and provide tailored guidance and resources to enhance public safety.
DKPD has already seen progress, reporting a 14% decrease in violent crime from 2023 to 2024. The department aims to build on this success through the PSP initiative to make neighborhoods safer.
The backstory:
DeKalb County’s inclusion in the PSP program is significant. It is one of only 20 jurisdictions nationwide selected for this initiative, and it is the first in Georgia to participate. The partnership brings together federal, state, and local agencies, including the FBI, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office, to collaboratively address public safety challenges.
What they're saying:
The DeKalb County Police Department expressed excitement about the program, describing it as a "landmark effort to reduce violent crime in local neighborhoods." The department views this as a unique and valuable opportunity to grow and innovate in crime-fighting strategies.
Why you should care:
Public safety is a critical issue affecting everyone in DeKalb County. The PSP initiative offers a chance to implement cutting-edge solutions to reduce crime, making communities safer for residents and businesses alike. The collaborative effort brings significant resources and expertise to the county, setting a precedent for other jurisdictions in Georgia.
What's next:
The first listening session will take place on Jan. 16 at 8:30 a.m. at Rehoboth Baptist Church, located at 2997 Lawrenceville Highway in Tucker.
It will kick off the partnership, offering residents and stakeholders a chance to engage with law enforcement and provide input. Throughout the three-year partnership, DKPD and its federal partners will reportedly work together to analyze data, develop strategies, and implement solutions tailored to DeKalb County’s specific needs. Residents are encouraged to attend the session and stay informed about future developments in this initiative.