New York has seen a substantial decline in gun violence, with Governor Kathy Hochul citing record state investments and coordinated efforts between law enforcement and community organizations as key factors. According to data from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), shooting incidents involving injury have decreased by 14% while shooting deaths plunged by 21% over the first seven months of 2025, as compared to the same period the previous year. Notably, these improvements are cast across communities participating in the Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) initiative.
At the GIVE forefront, local law enforcement agencies and community groups tirelessly have worked, their efforts being bolstered by state funding directed towards this pervasive issue. As quoted by the Governor's Office in a statement, "Gun violence in New York is falling as a direct result of our record investments in public safety and prevention initiatives." The DCJS statistics show a significant drop in figures—with 303 shooting incidents with injury reported, down from 351, alongside a descent in the number of individuals shot from 455 to 356, and a decrease in gun-violence-related deaths from 70 to 55.
Rosanna Rosado, Commissioner of the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, attributes this progress to Governor Hochul's investments, which have "empowered our local partners." With steadfast leadership and support for public safety partnerships, Governor Hochul's strategies are being praised for building safer and stronger neighborhoods. Echoing this sentiment, New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James affirms the pivotal role of GIVE, alongside other initiatives from the Governor's Office, in aggressively tackling gun violence across the state.
The GIVE program includes 28 police departments outside New York City, collectively accounting for a major portion of firearm-related violent crimes in regions outside the five boroughs. Notably representing progress since Governor Hochul's tenure that began in 2021, shootings statewide have more than halved and murders cut by 30%. Moreover, cities like Albany, Buffalo, Syracuse, and Rochester have seen dramatic reductions in shooting incidents, ranging from 8% to 53%. Additionally, New York City marks a nearly 20% decline in shootings and a comparable drop in shooting victims according to the latest NYPD reports.
Following these promising developments, Governor Hochul has announced a further $36 million in GIVE funding, marking the third year of heightened support for the initiative. The 2025 fiscal year brought in $347 million in funding for gun violence prevention, all part of an enacted budget designed to not only combat violence but also bolster support for victims, survivors, and community strength. For detailed statistics and more on the GIVE program's impact, the DCJS offers an interactive dashboard and data for the 28 police departments involved, complementing its wide array of support services for law enforcement and the criminal justice system in New York State.
