City of Memphis teaming up with federal office to cut down on gun violence
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MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) – It’s a new approach to ongoing crime in Memphis, city leaders and now looking to federal prosecutors to help with gun violence.
Twenty-nine days into April, according to the Memphis Police Department Data, there have been 31 homicides.
Recent data shows that during April, homicides are up by just over 3%.
That’s at least one homicide a day this month. The plan to stop it is to bring in more help from the US Attorney’s Office.
During a stakeholder meeting in Raleigh Tuesday night, hosted by Shelby County Commissioner Charlie Caswell, MPD shared a little insight into the new partnership with interim US Attorney Joseph C. Murphy, Jr.
“We are working in partnership with him at Austin Peay. We will be one of the precincts that will have a dedicated U.S. Attorney to help with all of the gun violence in the city,” said Col. Vikki Shabazz during the meeting.
These agencies will work closer together to federally prosecute people charged with gun crimes.
Violent crimes like aggravated assault, which may involve a gun, are down 13% according to MPD data.
While city leaders are working on gun violence, they are also working on other steps to create growing spaces in Memphis.
The new downtown parking initiative is one way they are doing that. This program is being used to streamline parking costs. City councilman Phillip Spinosa also recently introduced an ordinance to make parking garages safer for Memphians and tourists. If passed, it would establish a Parking Garage Revitalization and Safety Program.
“This is draft one, but there are going to be fines for trash. There is going to be a requirement to pressure wash every quarter,” said Spinosa. “Again, lighting, trash cans spaced out every 60 feet or so on the street.”
It moved out of committee with a favorable vote during the Public Works, Solid Waste, & General Services committee meeting.
Business owners downtown say these resources are needed to bring more people to their businesses.
“Makes me feel great, but it’s really not about me. It’s about my customers coming in and out those doors. I want them to feel safe and have a good time and don’t worry about folks breaking out their cars or stealing their cars,” said Arturo Azcarate, owner of the Curry and Jerk.
There is a press conference scheduled for Wednesday to explain more of this new partnership with the US Attorney’s Office and city agencies.
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