Violent Crime Reduction Initiative Press Conference 5.17.2023

This week, KCPD expanded its push to reduce violence to other areas of the city using the same collaboration model consisting of local organizations committed to preventing violence, City services, prosecutors, and various law enforcement partners.

“Historically, police have responded to crime challenges with police-only responses,” said Chief Stacey Graves. “I have said since I was appointed as Chief that I envision a citywide approach to violent crime. Everyone in Kansas City should care about violent crime and all work together to stop it.”

KCPD used a place-based analysis to determine where the expansion efforts are now happening. Violent crime locations often correlate with resident-generated reports requesting services from the City. 311 data shows where people report abandoned houses, trash, blight, and other quality of life issues.

Duplicating the initial effort, KCPD and partners have been out in the community this week educating residents on how to report criminal activity, as well as issues affecting quality of life. KCPD has also been following up on active warrants and communicating with residents in areas where violent crime is prevalent. Additionally, KCPD has been conducting traffic enforcement in areas where serious and fatal injury accidents have been rampant.

Chief Graves called on the Community Engagement Division (CED) to supplement this initiative by providing residents with resources and referrals to services. Members consist of KCPD’s social workers, Crisis Intervention Team Officers, Crime Free Multi-Housing Officers, Community Interaction Officers, and chaplains.

The CED is also working with Kansas City Common Good – K360, Partners for Peace, AdHocGroup Against Crime, and Mothers In Charge, among other groups.