NCJ Number
199568
Date Published
2002
Length
37 pages
Annotation
This document describes Project Exile and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which are programs responding to gun violence.
Abstract
Project Exile is a coordinated team effort between local and Federal agencies combined with extensive community outreach, and enforces existing gun laws to reduce gun violence and save lives. One of the key components of the project, initiated in Richmond, VA, was Federal prosecution under 18 United States Code Sections 922 and 924, and stiffer sentencing guidelines for those using firearms in the commission of drug offenses or crimes of violence. The project launched a massive media campaign to spread its message to the gun-toting criminals and law-abiding citizens. That message -- “An Illegal Gun Gets You Five Years in Federal Prison” -- appeared before the community on billboards, city buses, television commercials, traffic reports, print advertising, supermarket bags, and business cards distributed by local police. This outreach component provided a strong and consistent deterrent message to potential offenders. The project had a positive impact on the Richmond community, resulting in a dramatic decline in its homicide rate, 94 convictions, and 926 illegal guns removed from the streets. Project Safe Neighborhoods is designed to promote interagency coordination to find new ways to combat gun violence and deter would-be criminals from carrying firearms. A cornerstone of PSN’s gun violence reduction strategy is using a full range of sanctions, including substantial prison sentences and vigorous enforcement of gun laws. The message is sent to potential gun-using criminals that persons carrying illegal firearms or committing crimes with guns will face swift, certain, and severe punishment. PSN has five core elements: partnerships, strategic planning, training, community outreach, and accountability. Several other programs around the country are investigated for their unique solutions to gun-related issues. Some challenges faced by these programs were forming and maintaining partnerships, gaining community support and involvement, securing funding and resources, training, choosing the message, and keeping the momentum. Some of the strategic issues that need to be addressed by any jurisdiction building this type of program are discussed. Appendix