In Raleigh, NC, the freshly convened Gang Prevention and Intervention Task Force, led by Governor Josh Stein, held its inaugural meeting to tackle the pressing issue of gang-related violence and its impact on the community. Established through Executive Order 21 back in August, this task force aims to forge pathways to safety and positive futures for the state's youth. "North Carolina has recently had several tragic reminders of the need to keep people safe and prevent violence," according to the Office of the Governor.
Co-chair Leslie Cooley Dismukes, Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, emphasized the significance of timely intervention as a key strategy to reduce gang violence. The task force is composed of a diverse group of members, including law enforcement professionals as well as former gang members who have successfully changed their paths.
The initiative forms part of Governor Stein’s wider public safety strategy in North Carolina. It involves efforts to increase compensation for law enforcement personnel and to secure funding for violence prevention and crisis intervention programs. The administration also promotes interdisciplinary collaboration by engaging various stakeholders to address the issue in a coordinated way.
Working alongside Co-Chair Siarra Scott of the North Carolina Office of Violence Prevention, the task force brings together experts from diverse fields with a common objective. The group is designed to be well-rounded and interdisciplinary, including leaders from a variety of backgrounds and areas of expertise. Their mission goes beyond reducing gang activity to also identifying and supporting effective violence prevention programs that promote the safety and wellbeing of families throughout the state.
Notable ex officio members of this task force include figures such as Public Safety Secretary Eddie M. Buffaloe, Jr., State Superintendent Mo Green, and Attorney General Jeff Jackson, among others. A detailed list of task force members can be found on the Office of the Governor website.
