The NYPD reports that shootings in the city have doubled and murders have increased by 40% compared to the same time last year.
The city’s spikes in shootings prompted Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York Seth DuCharme to implement strategies to address gun-related violence. The Office’s Rapid and Strategic Prosecution was expanded last month for rapid intake of federal prosecutions in response to gun violence.
“In the middle of a global pandemic, we have also seen a local epidemic of shootings in our city, and we are responding with responsible, data-driven measures to protect our communities from armed repeat offenders and violent gang members to prevent neighborhoods and public housing from being turned into battle zones,” said DuCharme. “Our message is clear: violent criminal offenders will be arrested, detained and incapacitated in the court system.”
Manhattan District Attorney Cy Vance Jr. and the NYPD hosted a gun buyback event at Bethel Gospel Assembly in Harlem last Saturday. The buyback received a total of 48 guns from approximately 40 people.
“Gun buyback events are impactful tools for crime prevention and community building, especially in times of increased gun violence in our city,” said Vance. “I want to thank our partners at the NYPD, the leaders at Bethel Gospel Assembly, and all those who helped make their community safer by participating in today’s event while practicing social distancing.”
Individuals received $200 for handguns and assault rifles and $25 for rifles, shotguns and airguns. The recovered weapons included: 19 revolvers, 17 pistols, four rifles, one shotgun and seven other guns.
Amsterdam News Article:
http://amsterdamnews.com/news/2020/oct/22/violence-continues-amid-cooler-temperatures/