STRATEGIES

About VCRI

The Violent Crime Reduction Initiative is intended to create a better livelihood for all individuals in the community.

 

This initiative is in response to a consistent surge in gun violence. In 2021, there were 122 gun-related cases in Racine county, a 71% increase from 2018. This initiative is a collaborative effort by the City of Racine, Racine County, and the Racine Unified School District to reduce gun violence and protect all Racine County residents. We have all come together to reduce gun violence and keep our community safe.

Our Mission

We aim to tackle the concerning and untenable surge in gun-related offenses in Racine County, guaranteeing that all residents enjoy a secure community, irrespective of their location or postal code. You have an inherent right to live in a neighborhood where you feel safe, secure, and protected.

The City of Racine, Racine County, and Racine Unified School District collaborated to launch a violent crime reduction initiative. VCRI ensures stronger key strategies with law enforcement, community engagement, and community programs. We can create a safer place for all Racine residents by coming together and taking action.

 

Key Strategies

The VCRI will deal with gun crimes in Racine County through a three-pronged approach:

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement can help reduce gun violence through proactive community engagement and effective enforcement of firearm regulations.

 

Community Engagement

To foster community support for police involvement and comprehend and fulfill the needs of the community through engagement.

Community Programming

We provide evidence-based training resources to support and empower families, guiding them towards healthier and more productive lifestyles.

Violence Interruption Model 

911 Dispatch

The Violence Interrupter team establishes direct contact with the families of victims to provide support in navigating grief, defusing tense circumstances, and mitigating retaliatory violence.

On-Site Response

Violence Interrupter team responds on-site– day or night– to meet with the families of victims of gun violence.

Family Supports

Violence Interrupter team directly connects with the family of victims to help manage grief, de-escalate tense situations, and “I’m not stopping until the threat of retaliation is reduced”.

School District Notification

The Violence Interrupter team connects with the school district to provide extra support for students and deter in-school retaliation.

Long-term Support

An accountability partner provides community resources and helps families navigate the criminal justice system in the long term.