As the mercury climbs, so too does the specter of violence. Addressing this seasonal spike, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is intensifying efforts in southern Illinois to engage communities and bolster law enforcement partnerships, aiming to prevent an expected summer surge in violent crime. U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe underscored the proactive strategy, saying, "Typically, as temperatures rise, so do the violent crime rates," according to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Southern District of Illinois.

This past week, representatives from the U.S. Attorney’s Office made their rounds across the district, meeting with civic leaders and law enforcement to discuss public safety strategies. From engaging with the Public Safety Enforcement Group in East St. Louis to running youth camps with the Illinois State Police, efforts are multi-faceted. "Good relationships between law enforcement and the community are critical when it comes to solving and stopping crime, and keeping communities safe," explained ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly, as per the U.S. Attorney's Office, Southern District of Illinois.

The initiatives include various community outreach programs such as the Team Illinois Youth Police Camp, which aims to build early positive interactions with law enforcement and provide valuable life skills for young individuals. On Wednesday, U.S. Attorney’s Office employees joined police officers for these camps, imparting lessons on leadership, substance abuse resistance, and teamwork.