Columbia, SC-------United States Attorney Bill Nettles, in collaboration with other federal, state and local law enforcement agencies announce the launch of initiative “Ceasefire Columbia!" This initiative is aimed at reducing gun violence in the 29203 neighborhoods of North Columbia.
Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook stated, “Last year the Columbia Police Department received over 1400 calls of shots fired of which there were 118 confirmed victims shot. A high and disproportionate number of these calls were located in the 29203 neighborhoods of North Columbia. Therefore, our focused goal is to address individuals most prone to commit violent crimes or be victim to violent crime, all while improving the quality of life in our neighborhoods."
Operation “Ceasefire" was first introduced in Boston in the mid 90’s. This strategy has proven successful in reducing gun violence, reducing arrests and imprisonment, and strengthening disadvantaged communities. Similar focused deterrent strategies have proven successful around the state in cities such as Greenville, Aiken, North Charleston and Conway.
On Thursday, Oct. 29, 2015 at 6:30 p.m., approximately 50 individuals who are currently on probation or parole will convene at the Eau Claire Print Building, 3907 Ensor Avenue, Columbia, SC 29203, where they will face law enforcement representatives, as well as members of their own community, who will let them know that “enough is enough." The message will be clear: If any of these individuals are caught with a firearm or ammunition, they will immediately be taken into custody and charged in federal and/or state court, where they will face substantial prison sentences.
In addition to law enforcement, service providers will be present to discuss services which will help make it less likely for the attendees to reoffend. They will be offered assistance with issues they face, such as drug and alcohol dependency, housing issues, anger management, and employment. ##
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
