A number of organizations and individuals are combining their efforts in an attempt to reduce violence in Lexington. A new plan focuses on police intervention and offering resources to help prevent youth from falling into criminal activity.
The new “Safety Net” initiative involves neighbors, the public safety community, the faith community, social services, and other partners. Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton said police have a simple message for the community: threatening behavior often leads to gun violence and even death. Police Chief Lawrence Weathers said he believes this program can save lives. “Maybe if they call us and we learn about maybe we can make contact with them and talk to people and maybe de-escalate something before it gets out of hand,” said Weathers.
One Lexington Director Laura Hatfield noted Safety Net teams will form to work with individuals and households. She added the assistance could range from helping secure jobs to expungement services. Hatfield also believes police intervention can be a part of the effort. “Police go to the home or the household and say we are aware of an incident that could potentially be happening, almost serve as a warning to tell them to stop the violence or don’t create any type of threat in our city,” said Hatfield
Safety Net is expected to begin operations by the end of the year.
