Wednesday, September 13, 2017

Cuomo Deploys New Gang Violence Prevention Unit to Top 10 High-Risk Suffolk County Schools


Earlier today, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the deployment of a new Gang Violence Prevention Unit, consisting of 10 State Troopers, to the top 10 high-risk Suffolk County schools that currently serve as ground zero for gang activity and recruitment. The new unit will work to stop gang violence before it starts and identify early warning signs of gang activity. The Gang Violence Prevention Unit will also coordinate closely with the Suffolk County Police Department to launch an "Educate the Educators" program, which will help teachers and faculty recognize the early warning signs of gang involvement and recruitment. In addition, the State Police will roll out a gang awareness curriculum directly to students to teach them about the dangers of gangs and foster a relationship between students and police.

Governor Cuomo made the announcement on the one year-anniversary of the tragic murders of high-school students Nisa Mickens and Kayla Cuevas by MS-13. The new initiative comes on the heels of the Governor's efforts to expand access to state intelligence and law enforcement assets in the fight against MS-13. In April, the Governor launched expanded patrols in Brentwood and Central Islip, providing an additional 25 State Troopers, and added six investigators to the FBI-led Long Island Gang Task Force.

Source: NYGovCuomo

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