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Home My WebLink AboutGVTF Report to Council 01-2025 GUN VIOLENCE The City of Cape Girardeau Gun Violence Task Force TASK was an ad hoc advisory committee of agency partners, community leaders, and residents dedicated to understanding and addressing the root causes of gun violence in our city, and the local government role in prevention In 2024, the Task Force held eight public FORCEpresentations featuring expert testimonies from representatives in criminal justice, education, nonprofit organizations, and municipal services. r1L-T-irJ • 4 , / C 1 L . i ......_. , , ., Air., . r‘. s.,.„,„t. 1 r-,-- ' ' Am , 1P-E-. 1, } 1 — s« iL. b R �. ,....:�.�,..._ r C ,..-/ K. eilf JANUARY 2025 LAURA BAIN-SELBO DR MELISSA STICKEL SUPPORT&STAFF CO-CHAIR DR HOWARD BENYON ADRIAN TAYLOR MAYOR STACY KINDER JESSICA HILL JOSH CROWELL CLINT TRACY DR KENNETH HASKIN NITA DUBOSE DR CARLOS VARGAS CHIEF ADAM GLUECK CO-CHAIR ALIX GASSER AMBER WALKER CHIEF RANDY MORRIS ROB GILLIGAN LYNN WARE NICOLETTE BRENNAN ADAM KIDD JARED RITTER LESLIE WASHINGTON GAYLE CONRAD NANCY SCHELLER TINA WRIGHT DR SHANNON FARRIS LEE SCHLITT TREVOR PULLEY TABLE OF CONTENTS 3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Immediate Focus & Long-Term. 3 Law Enforcement, Families & Youth, Citizens 3 4 PRESENTATION SUMMARIES Planning Session (7/23/24) 4 Police Department & SoundTechnology (8/1/24) 5 Missouri 32nd Circuit Court (8/15/24) 8 Cape Girardeau County Prosecution (8/22/24) 9 Missouri 32nd Juvenile Office (9/19/24) 10 Cape Girardeau Public Schools (10/8/24) 11 Neighborhood Programs & City Court (11/6/24) 12 Nonprofits & SOLVE (12/5/24) 13 15 RECOMMENDATIONS City Programs & Policies 15 Advocacy & External Agencies 16 Public Awareness & Education 18 19 ADDITIONAL RESOURCES This document includes recommendations, supporting data, and actionable next steps It serves as a strategic framework to guide the City of Cape Girardeau in fostering a safer, more resilient community for all residents CITY of CAPE GIRARDEAU EXECUTIVE SUMMARY IN MISSOURI, UNSUPERVISED CHILDREN CAN Gun violence prevention is a multifaceted CARRY LOADED GUNS IN PUBLIC issue that requires a collaborative, evidence- based approach While no single agency or l SHOTSPOTTER INCIDENTS intervention can fully prevent gun related JAN—NOV: 2023(356), 2024(273) incidents, coordinated efforts can significantly reduce risks and improve community safety. THIS PAST FALL,ONE GUN WAS STOLEN To achieve this, the Task Force recommends that the city government, in partnership with FROM A VEHICLE EACH WEEK(AVG) key stakeholders. RECENTLY,PD AT HIGHEST Prioritize intervention and support for STAFFING LEVEL SINCE 2018 individuals and areas at the highest risk of violence. ALMOST HALF OF CAPE HOMES ARE RENTALS Balance preventative measures with swift and certain enforcement of CAPE IS THE LARGEST MISSOURI CITY public safety laws. WITHOUT A HOUSING AUTHORITY, RESULTING IN SIGNIFICANT Invest in long-term strategies focused RESPONSIBILITY on community well-being, economic FOR LOCAL NONPROFITS stability, and education. The recommendations in this report are designed to guide the city in building a resilient and proactive response to gun violence Expanded recommendations are on pages 15-18 WELL—STAFFED AND EQUIPPED FAMILIES&YOUTH EMPOWERED COMMUNITY 1 LAW ENFORCEMENT SUPPORT&ACCOUNTABILITY RESPONSIBLE CITIZENS • Continue robust recruitment and • Update Memorandums of • Encourage responsible firearm retention initiatives Understanding(MOUs)among ownership and storage • Report data and technology tools the juvenile office, local schools, • Encourage citizens to report publicly in advance of budget and other law enforcement issues that cannot be resolved at requests, consider increased • Assess the need to reopen a local the neighborhood level such as investment Juvenile Detention Center for chronic nuisances,suspicious • Explore the costs and benefits of the Mo. 32nd Judicial Circuit activities,and disorderly and a real-time crime center,which • Monitor and assess the social dilapidated properties would deploy the full potential of determinants of health,and • Expand citizen participation in the tools such as gunshot detection, elevate the work of local Police Department's Security license plate readers, public and nonprofit prevention Camera Registration program private surveillance cameras,and programming by inviting data analysis presentations to city council, and • Advocate for state-level reforms. having elected and appointed leadership actively participate in local coalitions 3 PRESENTATION SUMMARIES In 2024, the Task Force held nine public meetings, most featuring expert testimonies from representatives in criminal justice, education, nonprofit organizations, and municipal services They were asked to describe the situation in Cape Girardeau, and recommend prevention strategies IF !tip)! , rt w ..4.0t4i 011 • N 4 1:-%L.22, � � # IV, PLANNING SESSION . July 23, 2024 '.-® Following a discussion of committee mission, role, values and schedule, the group heard from other coalitions also working to end gun violence The Police Department also presented recent incident data SOLVE Gun Crime Task Force POLICE •All CPSEMO & Community ��PMSSUUq�EAU Police Department& Partners Creating a safer and more resilient ler Investigates violent gun crimes and �i� Cape Girardeau by addressing 1192 violent career criminals SODIC firearm violence through Since revamped in September 2024 SOLVEcommunity engagement, dialogue, six arrests, five guns seized, two --- and capacity building search warrants executed, one pending federal indictment Task Force Values. ❑■ �1�h ID BEYOND THE SUMMARIES Safety and security for everyone ' .I. Well-supported law enforcement ,'}�' :• Z0 :I Watch the presentations, _ ...• rt Transparent and civil discussion .vg . review documentation, and Responsible gun ownership 0 '. I ' . more on the task force website p Inviolable personal and property rights cityofcape.org/GVTF 4 i 41 ..iW ., CRIMINAL , . . ., • 1 POLICE DEPARTMENT • • • CGPD & SOU N DTH I N KI NG Gunfire detection locations since Shotspotter deployed 7/22 The mission of the Cape Girardeau Police As the population center of the region, the total Department is to protect life, property, and the Calls for Service (CFS) and Cases, including violent rights of persons, to enforce ordinances and incidents, are higher in the city compared to laws; and to preserve peace, order, and safety neighboring agencies Police Department presentations focused on personnel needs, technology, and local CFS&Case Comparison collaboration and data Then Interim Police 50000 45000 43028 Chief Adam Glueck invited staff and partners to 40000 co-present to the Task Force Aug 1, 2024 The 35000 interim chief was officially appointed Chief of 25000 19-c 19286 Police on November 22, 2024 20000 15000 10000 6253 STAFFING 5000UIII 1570 1389 0 The most significant issue at the Police CGPD CGSO 1PD Department has been the need to recruit and 2023 retain highly professional police officers in Dynamic shifts in police recruiting began order to maintain swift and effective incident nationwide in 2014 The issue has not been response and investigations, and to unique to Cape Girardeau The local hiring continuously engage with the public to build process would traditionally attract 80-90 and maintain cooperation In July 2024, the applicants, but now results in only 1-2 applicants CGPD had 14 openings, reducing to only 4 Funded and unstaffed roles have been covered at openings in December - the lowest number of CGPD by current officer over-time open positions since 2018 As staffing levels improved in recent months, The task force repeatedly discussed the need officials have noted a shift in the City-Department for competitive pay to support the department, leadership, culture, and pay plan as improving the and to drive more potential officers into the department's ability to recruit and retain staff profession "WE CANNOT ARREST OUR WAY OUT OF VIOLENCE,NOR CAN WE SOCIAL PROGRAM OUR WAY OUT.EVIDENCE POINTS TO BOTH." -POLICE CHIEF ADAM GLUECK 5 TECHNOLOGY As Chief Glueck said, technology does not stop gun violence, but it is an important piece of the puzzle when ° = "� °'"" """ '"" putting a gun violence prevention program together. Chief Glueck invited SoundThinking staff to present the _—�- �•—a acoustic gunshot detection system used in the city, .--- • ..U..=„, ShotSpotter(see heat map on previous page) .,,— • 33% of ShotSpotter activations, 2022-24, did not •-•�p° p July ... have a corresponding 911 call from a citizen M' �_ ,.,�•_ . _ a,_=. .,,n„ ,- • Jan.-Nov for 2023 and 2024 indicated a 27% decrease in confirmed ShotSpotter activations 40 license plate recognition cameras TECH—POWERED COLLABORATION deployed city-wide (Flock Technology) Beyond gunshot detection, the SoundThinking staff recommended a technology expansion, and a non-tech Phase 2 of the program Their recommendations included• • • Grants and public-private partnerships for funding technology and programs As an example, a hospital, r housing authority, and university co-funded a I?DSOUNDTHGNKING ArA FOR ShotSpotter deployment in Greenville, N C = Partnerships to develop • Public health approach to gun violence prevention support initiatives for those who are most in need which can be tailored to the specific needs and values of Cape Girardeau SINCE INCEPTION: • Hosting "City Connect” events in hot spots to build TOTAL ALERTS: 869 connections and clean-up blighted neighborhoods TOTAL SHOTS CAPTURED:3,057 Presenters recommended city departments, plus CASINGS RECOVERED:1,136 employment and psychological services, any appropriate partner with existing obligations to GUNS RECOVERED:40 impacted populations, tailored to the needs of small ARRESTS MADE:43 areas • Other strategies such as an ongoing City-County violence prevention and neighborhood safety focus, Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Programs, School-Based Handle with Care Program, Victim Services, and federally qualified health center outreach programs • FULLY AUTOMATIC GUNFIRE ALERTS 0 DateTime CI Date OTime DAddress ORounds Q • 09/27/2022 19:32:34 09/27/2022 19:32:34 24 S Hanover St, 21 't 10/13/2022 21:28:45 10/13/2022 21:28:45 700 S Ellis St, 4 06/07/2023 00:59:52 06/07/2023 00:59.52 100 S S.anish St, 4 08/21/2023 00:24:10 08/21/2023 00:24:10 1926 Henry St, 18 9 O 11/19/2023 00:54:46 11/19/2023 00:54:46 724 Broadway St, 3 06/16/2024 01.38:55 06/16/2024 01.38.55 221 Independence St, 20 06/23/202403:03:58 06/23/2024 03:0358=Mg= 24 6 The Real-Time Crime Center(RTCC) concept was also discussed at A Real-Time Crime Center multiple meetings A RTCC would empower CGPD to respond quickly, would centralize a broad or even immediately, to crimes in progress or to those that recently occurred range of current and evolving technologies, Bobby Bollinger, Director of the Law Enforcement Academy at coordinate sworn and/or Southeast Missouri State University and the City's crime analyst, nonsworn human resources, discussed the University's academy program, classes and enrollment, and reviewed city crime statistics from the National Incident-Based and direct the attention of Reporting System (NIBRS) system as well as how the data is collected both to high-crime areas, While the Council's task force caught headlines in 2024, the CGPD's active crimes in progress, Gun Crime Task Force does not operate publicly to preserve the large-scale public events integrity of their investigations. The GCTF is a collaboration among local that may require law law enforcement and prosecution enforcement presence or Cape Girardeau Police Officer Scott Droddy also response, and/or high- :-.1-1 . - presented their new gun detection dog program The profile or highly recidivistic �` K-9, Ella, was in trainingat the time, and wasput into . t offenders in the community. service by Nov 2024 The new asset will help detect guns and casings during events and gun incidents Ella In short, an RTCC would is a 2-year-old German Wirehair Pointer and hails from maximize the Greece likelihood that law enforcement can respond to crimes occurring in real- time and do so effectively. Crime Classificatiffik 2022 2023 Percent Change Homicide 4 2 -50% Robbery MEL 9 22 144% ,"' Arson 7 14 100% ..t�r�� El Assault 11111111. 447 577 29% b Burglary 151 140 -7% ;+} .;i Counterfeiting/Forgery 38 46 21% L•.•' ;p._ f- Property Damage 323 342 6% ❑� may': Drug Offenses Mn 263 206 -22% cityofcape.org/POLICE Fraud 107 89 -17% BEYOND THE Kidnapping ler 8 14 75% SUMMARY Theft 825 855 4% Motor Vehicle Theft 99 105 6% See more incident Sex Offenses 43 57 33% data in the decade of Receiving Stolen Property 16 33 106% CGPD Annual Weapons Violations 193 226 17% Reports posted on Totals 2533 2728 8% their website 2024 Data Coming Soon CITY HALL'S ELECTED AND APPOINTED OFFICIALS REMAIN THANKFUL FOR POLICE CHIEF ADAM GLUECK AND STAFF FOR MAKING TIME DURING THIS PERIOD OF INCREDIBLE CHANGE (FELLOW ASSISTANT CHIEF RODNEY BARKER ALSO RETIRED IN THE FALL OF 2024). The Judge Benjamin Lewis from the Missouri 32nd Judicial CRIMINAL JUSTICE Circuit discussed recurring themes from his 20+years serving the circuit,and the challenges the court faces including a lack MISSOURI 32ND COURT of cooperation from witnesses,and inadequate prison space in Missouri. Though noting a `limited opportunity to make JUDGE BEN LEWIS progress"the Judge used various case stories to illustrate issues and note common circumstances among the most frequent perpetrators of gun violence COMMON PROBLEMS Anecdotally, the Judge recalled that the most common offenders, regarding gun violence, are impulsive young men from unstable backgrounds.The other three categories included domestic 1 violence, career criminals, and the least frequent, psychopathy Young Street Crime Offenders Mature Offenders - also use illegal weapons but • Under 24 years old, impulsive, almost always for planned offenses such as drug dealing, using a stolen and/or illegally possessed burglary and robbery firearm • Many of these young people have similar Domestic Violence - these cases often involve backgrounds absent father, impoverished, mature men using legally acquired and substance abuse by the adults in the home, possessed weapons against family members. This early onset of substance abuse, beginning at has been happening "since Cain killed his 10-12 years old, and daily use by 14. These brother," said the judge offenders were often abused as children They were usually out of school by 16, with no job Psychopaths - Antisocial personality and skills or support systems psychopathy are not legal defenses Persistent • Many were smaller men, often feeling a lack of use of marijuana or methamphetamine can control of their lives induce psychosis but that is not a defense • The offenders have "low horizons" in that they because it is a result of voluntary intoxication. do not see the likely consequences of their Lack of legal capacity due to mental disease or actions.They cannot see a path from their defect is rare in gun violence cases Gun violence chaotic life, to a better life, with a good job, a in all these conditions is very difficult to prevent, nice home and someone who cares about except to the extent that substance abuse can be them Many of these offenders have no controlled examples of success in their social network 4* Cape Girardeau native Judge Benjamin F Lewis has served the Cape area "' . from the bench for 24 years, in addition to working in legal private practice and serving on the school board He is married with two adult children In ii44 ILI :i. the last 20 years, he saw half of the felony cases in the 32nd Circuit Due ;_. ;- _ ._ to Missouri's mandatory retirement statute,Judge Lewis will retire Dec 31, ---- "' 2024 Associate Circuit Judge Frank Miller ran unopposed to replace Lewis as the Division II judge beginning January 1, 2025 At that time Judge • Scott Lipke will become the new Presiding Judge. Missouri's circuit courts are the trial courts of general jurisdiction in all civil and criminal matters The 32nd Circuit is comprised of Cape Girardeau, Perry and Bollinger counties. 8 CRIMINAL JUSTICE CRIMINAL JUSTICE MISSOURI 32ND CIRCUIT PROSECUTION JUDGE, (CONTINUED) PA MARK WELKER PRISON SPACE Prosecuting attorneys are elected officials who The public frequently believes that little is are the chief law enforcement officers in their done about crime. However, CGPD can make county, working in partnership with their staff, an arrest, and almost always the Prosecuting the sheriff's department, and any police Attorney can bring charges Cape juries are not agencies within their county The Cape reluctant to convict and none of our local Girardeau County Prosecuting Attorney's judges are shy about imposing significant Office fields 3,000 -3,500 cases/year mostly sentences But there were 44,477 felonies from Cape City police, but also from Jackson disposed statewide from the circuit courts in and elsewhere in the County They prosecute the 2023-24 fiscal year, and the 30,992 prison cases ranging from relatively minor traffic and beds were already full This results in a "one in, misdemeanor offenses to serious felonies. one out" problem. There were 676 felonies There have been 45 50 gun specific cases/ filed in Cape Girardeau County in 2023 Of year recently, which includes violent acts and those, 14 went to jury trial (2%) - twice the others such as felons in possession. statewide rate. COOPERATION "COME AND WATCH A There is little that the criminal justice system COURT CASE,WE'RE can do without the cooperation of the public VERY OPEN TO THE to report crimes and testify in court. PUBLIC." Unfortunately, the Judge said, "the people who -PA MARK WELKER. 4,1 are engaged in [violent crimes], and the people around them, and even the victims hate us ;g more than they hate the people who shot them " If no one is willing to testify, no one will be convicted "We're seeing big city problems coming here," said Welker, referring to his work with the DRUG COURT Missouri Prosecuting Attorneys Association Rather than send someone to serve a "Models for our city might not be the same as sentence, the PA and Drug Court large cities, we need to network with our Administrator screen potential candidates for colleagues in Joplin, Jefferson City, and other the sentencing judge to consider for Drug similar small cities to share best practices Court Drug Court is a combination of There isn't a model that works for Missouri resource/treatment referral, group therapy, yet, so the hope is maybe that we can work and accountability such as short jail time, to together" move offenders forward in lieu of prison sentences COOPERATION IS KEY To prosecute a case, evidence must be presented by law enforcement, witnesses, and others Like other presenters, the PA cited "VICTIMS HATE US MORE witness cooperation as a top challenge facing THAN THEY HATE THE the criminal justice system. The PA's PEOPLE WHO SHOT THEM" contribution includes a Victim Advocate role -JUDGE LEWIS focused on helping victims understand their rights, and the judicial process - a key element in maintaining victim cooperation through a lengthy and sometimes confusing legal process 9 CAMERAS In lieu of witness statements, the PA has had success using camera footage provided by the city, businesses, and private residences "It gives us the ability to at least present evidence in court," said Welker TRUTH IN SENTENCING / JAIL CAPACITY Cape Girardeau County jail population, when presented in August 2024 at 300+, was way over the 220- person capacity Citing examples such as a conviction with a 7-year sentence only resulting in 8-9 months of time served, Welker offered "Truth in Sentencing" as a legislative tool locals could work with state representatives in making a reality "Once someone is sentenced on their case with us then it it's a magical number of how long that they'll actually serve," said Welker Truth in Sentencing would force a prison expansion and "it will be costly but I think it is needed." Locally, the Cape Girardeau County Commission had decided that they needed to help combat some of the crime issues that we've seen at the local level by approving the jail expansion project which will increase the local jail size to 500 by mid-2025. RECIDIVISM and CRIMINAL ASSOCIATIONS The PA routinely sees repeat offenders, and/or family members, children, and associates of past prosecutions "We're seeing a lot more of the frequent flyers," said Welker Violent criminals tend to have associations to our area (not transient) and offenders seem to be getting younger MENTAL HEALTH "Mental health is a huge issue that I think is growing not only in our community but across the entire country," said Welker noting it's not specific to gun crime. "... Almost all of our cases now have some mental health aspect to them " Also, the PA does not typically see violent crime with homeless individuals But, "we have a large issue with leaving car doors unlocked " Many looking for easy cash are stealing guns and other items from unlocked cars, adding to the inventory of guns available to violent criminals Missouri 32nd Judicial Circuit District Juvenile Officer Kevin JUVENILE JUSTICE Gruenwald discussed topics relating to the juvenile detention CHIEF JUVENILE OFFICER process, staffing, case statistics, operating procedures, delinquent criminal process, Division of Youth Services, certification to the KEVIN GRUENWALD adult system, state statutes and the juvenile court system His recommendations included Juvenile System • Encourage interaction with faith-based organizations among at-risk youth and families • REHABILITATION . Support local Boys and Girls Club of SEMO with a permanent • • Offender structure for expanded programming. • Accountability • Community • Increase youth and adult interactions Safety • Support SOLVE gun violence grant in the community. Philosophy • Restorative • Increase activities and programs for low income youth by Justice subsidizing low income youth admission to the Osage Center •Competency and Shawnee Park Center Development • Evidence Based • Re-establish a detention center in Cape Girardeau County Services • Contact local and state representatives ❑■ i h ❑� to change state statutes. Gruenwald also provided a thorough • Educate the public on safety, especially :_ i packet of information and links including• locking vehicles and gun locks. ;it: Missouri Juvenile Officer Performance • Promote the Eddie Eagle Gun Safe ' ime Standards 2017(mo.gov), Boys& Girls Program for first graders - Statute 0 �: °Y. Club,YMCA, and others Use the QR 171 410 RSMo. code to explore online in the agenda cityofcape.org/GVTF packet. CAPE GIRARDEAU PUBLIC SCHOOLS DR.HOWARD BENYON, JOSH CROWELL, MANDY KEYS Cape Girardeau Public Schools Superintendent ,ntemal Preventa.. Dr Howard Benyon, Josh Crowell, and Mandy Keys covered an extensive list of programs Pamterships managed by the district to keep kids safe, and to help prepare them for life Since students basic needs must be met so they can learn, the school °�°"°"""""° Conn;Convnurdyo°` otaxon district's role in social services, mental health, �=•n b• Rommr••b „,Boon own.,�y�E�W� and other programming has expanded rapidly in o..orovwws+out a- »-�--� CARE Tw recent years �'_� ---------------__ ------------ - Cape Girardeau's opportunities for P pp improvement include. ACCOUNTABILITY • Severity of punishment should fit the crime Cape Central Academy • Restorative practices and accountability M should co-exist. Supports for • Cooperative completion of Juvenile Risks Students and Needs Assessments is needed P; • Exercise the reasons for the override 21stCentury Crnrt section on the Juvenile Detention to Assessment Form Youth BuUo COMMUNICATION • Enhance transparency among agencies (schools, states, and others), for prompt Preventative Measures, External Supports reporting of juvenile offenses to the school Campus Safety and Security Meetings(monthly)Various state • In 2008 the FERPA(student record keeping) agencies,other school districts,guest presenters Partnerships with outside agencies law was changed to allow student Cape PD,FD,City Public Works Dept,Jackson PD Jackson information regarding violence to be shared FD,and other agencies training for active intruders • Community Counseling Center with schools, but it is not being done locally Great Oaks Counseling • Juvenile J ustice Department • Care to Learn GOVERNANCE Grants-over$500K in the last four years awarded • Prom t re ortin is needed Threat Assessment Grant • p p g • School Violence Prevention Program • Change the state law, or add a City ordinance, prohibiting unsupervised children from carrying guns in public • Lobby the State (Juvenile Justice Reform), fl changing the juvenile point system to show �� 0 BEYOND THE SUMMARIES serious infractions by juveniles ti ,- • Recommended - an authoritative body to ..•161'' '• Watch the presentation, govern school safety at the state level _' ;Iv review documentation, and • Restore state funding for DYS programming El' }k' ■ '. more on the task force website (ECHO classrooms for students in the cityofcape.org/GVTF adjudication program). 11 „ NEIGHBORHOOD "MOST DEFENDANTS DO NOT START WITH GUNS—SMALLER OFFENSES PROGRAMS, &COURT MUST BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY.” CITY STAFF —JUDGE BRIGHT—PEARSON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT — RENTAL LICENSING & CONDEMNATION Asst City Manager and Community Development Director Trevor Pulley presented on the Chronic Nuisance Property Review Group, Condemnation, and the Residential Rental Program Chronic Nuisance was defined as drug-related offenses, illegal use of weapons, prostitution, public alcohol consumption, and other heinous crimes (contrasted with minor nuisance offenses such as litter or tall grass) The Chronic Nuisance process was explored and examples cited Condemnation and demolition of dangerous buildings was described as a year-long process by design, to preserve property rights Pulley noted additional Council support for condemnations Residential Rental Licensing was described as a basic checklist of essential household needs including heat and plumbing Pulley responded to questions that one position is dedicated to the complaint-based program. The group discussed that not all renters are causing violence, but issues persist among certain rental properties CRIME FREE MULTI-HOUSING Pause 0 '(-" CITYOFCAPE.ORG/REPORT PROGRAM ^{'1 'I, it . r s Keeping crime out of rental communities. rr�pa4 �. ilii. 9 i Safer and more pleasant places to live,a stable resident base.lower maintenance costs, AF } ,'i improved property values,community environment where neighbors work together with 1 �� O;k: improved cooperation and relationships between police and apartment communities. �S5 �t•i i } _ TRASH& DANGEROUS WEEDS, Management Security Resident OUTDOOR PROPERTIES& UNCUT GRASS, STORAGE NEGLECT OTHER ISSUES Training Assessment Training POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME FREE MULTI—HOUSING PROGRAM CONDEMNATION Cpl Richard Couch presented the Crime Free Multi- III STATUS AS OF Housing program which is a property manager and tenant PRESENTATION training program that improves security and can prevent nCondemned Property crimes (tactics include lease addendums to discourage Pending Demolition chronic nuisance behavior in writing, and give landlords a mechanism to deal with offenders ) MUNICIPAL COURT Illr Municipal Judge Teresa Bright-Pearson presented on the layers of local and state courts and types of cases Cape Sentencing is limited by charge codes, and there were Girardeau • issues imposed by State reforms in the 2015 era Offenders can do community service at a nonprofit they find . %. themselves Communication is essential for appropriate mr sentencing, there is no pre-sentencing report such as in state court Most sentencing is based on current offense lb * , without prior history. The Judge also said that every court has a role to play in gun violence reduction/prevention The Judge encouraged the group to provide service and Olt relevant programs and classes information to the court CITYOFCAPE.ORG MAPPING 1 I - _ elllllllli. NM 64. f i.14-,-;t, = 4 .L.,�. -- Y a ` MW CR NONPROFITS & SOLVE ; 1z , DR MELISSA STICKEL & IL ,e, - QUINTON ROBERTS Nonprofits and Nongovernmental Organizations (NGOs) include charities, healthcare, churches, and other groups not managed by governments or driven by profits NGOs are value-driven and based on the interests of its own members and institutions NGOs in Cape Girardeau provide a variety of essential, humanitarian, development and other services. While local government services in Cape Girardeau are more focused on the response to gun violence, NGOs play a role in both the response and the prevention of gun violence Many local services agencies focus on youth programs including life skills, enrichment, training, and more They also provide safety net services and advocacy Lists are available at www 211.org and www.FirstCallforHELPSEMO org Community Partnership of SEMO maximizes resources to develop and deliver a wide range of services that improve the lives of individuals, children, and families, and to build strong neighborhoods and communities Thus, CPSEMO is uniquely positioned to lead community-driven solutions that address the systemic challenges of gun violence Their Missouri Foundation for Health program, SOLVE (Strengthening Our Local Voices to End Gun Violence), is working to create a safer and more resilient Cape Girardeau by addressing firearm violence through community engagement and youth empowerment Some projects on the horizon include. QR Codes for Community Input, Listening Sessions, Youth-Centered Events, and overall collaborative and data- driven solutions The Role of Nonprofits in Gun Violence Prevention 0 Advocacy Community Support Elevating community voices to influence policy 3Providing resources such as housing, and systemic change. employment,and mental health services to address root causes 410 Prevention Programs Educating communities,especially youth,about Collaboration the dangers of gun violence.Provide mentorship, Partnering with law enforcement,schools,and after-school programs,and skill-building to steer other agencies to create a comprehensive youth away from violent environments. response. 13 Violence Intervention Programs: Effective Approaches From Around the Nation Program Impact Focus and Strategy Approach:Treats violence as a public health Significant reduction in shootings Key Strategies: Cure Violence(Chicago,IL) https.//cvg.org and homicides in target Violence before ters yescalteconflicts neighborhoods before they escalate Community outreach and education campaigns. Approach'Focuses on individuals at the highest risk of gun violence. Advance Peace(Richmond,CA) Over S0%reduction in firearm Key Strategies https.//www.advancepeace.org assaults and homicides Life coaching and mentorship. Financial incentives for program participants meeting personal goals. Approach-Fellowship program targeting at-risk youth Operation Peacemaker Fellowship Reduced gun-related crime rates by Key strategies: CA) nearly40% Participants receive mentoring,counseling, (Stockton, and opportunities for personal growth. Builds trust btween law enforcement and the community httpsl/cvg.org,httpsa/wwwadvancepeace.org NONPROFITS & ENGAGEMENT • Advocate for comprehensive public health approaches to gun violence, rather than focusing solely on criminal justice The PH approach is rooted in data and evidence, while remaining tailored to the specific needs of our small city and Its culture and values • Recommends further review and adoption of effective collaborative approaches from across the nation (see presentation slide above) • The public and policymakers should volunteer and partner with existing nonprofits, learn more about existing programs in the community (especially before creating startups if they are duplicative.) • Invest in prevention • Embrace Social Services as City Issues - A City-Led Social Service Committee could keep Council informed of community needs and issues, and work together to identify and resolve service gaps and duplications A collaborative group could also be more successful securing additional funds from grants and private sources than as individual government and NGO entities working in isolation COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANTS Several task force members were SAVE THE DATE interested in further committee work, and WEAR ORANGE securing Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds The City's grant office has developed a Citizen Participation Plan Wear Orange Weekend, June 6 8, (CPP) in compliance with the U S 2025 to honor survivors and build Department of Housing and Urban community with those working to Development (HUD) regulations governing end gun violence the CDBG Program Council will consider a related resolution at their Jan. 21, 2025 meeting 14 RECOMMENDATIONS CITY GOVERNMENT ADVOCACY& PUBLIC PROGRAMS&POLICIES EXTERNAL AGENCIES AWARENESS IMPROVEMENTS TO EXISTING MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT-MANAGED OR FUNDED ACTIVITIES Maximize resources available for law enforcement and criminal r • justice activities � . `- �� _ • Continue to improve recruitment, retention, academy enrollment, and talent pipeline for police. • Increase cameras available to law enforcement W _ 1 Promote security camera registrations Incentivize new camera purchases through grants and public- - ` 1 private partnerships • Showcase success of tools such as gunfire - ,D, detection, license plate readers, and cameras in advance of budget requests for FY25-26. Bolster efforts to maintain safe • Explore the need for a real-time crime center to and orderly neighborhoods realize the full potential of existing tools, new and rental properties technology, and data analysis. • Routinely assess and remove barriers to reporting • Increase participation in the Crime Free crimes and nuisances through process reviews, and Multi Family Housing Program through find ways to reduce fear of retaliation among the enhanced marketing such as integration non-reporting public. Maintain or enhance witness into rental licensing and incentives. Work support programs where applicable with existing landlords to identify and • Research or crowdsource, and regularly update, eliminate barriers to participation appropriate classes and community service • Promote the use of neighborhood programs to provide options to municipal court. programs such as building code • Establish or enhance Intervention Programs for enforcement, nuisance abatement, and related offenses, potentially using the Batterer residential rental licensing Intervention Program as a blueprint. • Plan Shotspotter-recommended "City • Find ways to communicate the totality of the Connect" events to focus resources to circumstances in city court, distinguishing between high-risk neighborhoods Send resource first and repeat offenses, and other important referral communications, organize clean details (pre sentencing report). ups, and strategically focus neighborhood programs to cool hotspots of illicit activity. Structure for success • Convert any Council-approved recommendations to an actionable strategic plan with assignments, deadlines, and city management oversight • Enhance data collection, analysis, and action with a focus on community outcomes • Maintain a culture within city government of strong leadership and continuous improvement • Evaluate grants and public private partnerships to find new funding • Recognize good partnerships, such as the youth sports collaboration among Parks & Recreation and local schools, and report publicly • Strengthen existing relationships within the community to enhance cooperation, increase opportunities to receive feedback from constituents, consider more input from victims/advocates in future council processes 15 RECOMMENDATIONS,CONTINUED • Consider a Social Services Advisory Board, that like most other city boards, would not have a budget impact The committee would elevate our local essential programs, assess community needs and gaps (such as teen activities), keep the Council informed of community issues, recommend grants and funding opportunities, and facilitate ongoing dialogue with residents. • At a minimum, any nonprofit currently receiving funds from the city government should provide an annual report at a city council meeting. CITY GOVERNMENT ADVOCACY& PUBLIC PROGRAMS&POLICIES EXTERNAL AGENCIES AWARENESS PROGRAMS OR POLICIES MANAGED BY AGENCIES EXTERNAL TO THE CITY GOVERNMENT Communicate local impacts of state i.....- 4,—BC.l„a.¢i•ER.,,¢..A.ammtst 01,1 A,Floi .:m, I decisions to those officials as part of a ss. a,ps"' Pan lata "'W` O. Arw.,..Tr. continuous regional advocacy program. ~= e, Caw,41•1. • Support Juvenile Justice Reform, Enforcement, and Facilities o Revise or add to the memorandums of understanding, and/or otherwise formalize expectations, among the „,,,__�� TACT¢l "`mon FACTOR WORE 1 juvenile office, schools, law enforcement, and others 2.Cain»Crtgdl. AM»tow.li.lYa.b A.Ca»a+s.a.r A 1»r»rAa.Iw.W.al..h 10 • Allow school officials to participate in risk a Can mia....aaa. II i I-4!Bawl a..r.a.aa. __.__. 0 C W agleam r.,l.w»d..k o--_________...___..._... assessments S. Aa II ay....¢... • A A.f61taw4 4r.iam4 ct A Ain.•Iw»vOa• • Align intake and response expectations at the local d"".�l.d.a•.. "" " `CameimFaaymalo"�""'"`' ' C or—---+sw..._....II p tb..rrl.wr/w.i:. II level. 0�-r�-+-*Pt F ___ _ - ° 6 aV,Oi,d6r.a,i•._...___. A Pv..•.a...ra.n.60Y,_.1 I 11101.6666�.1 B Par••••1114,1M.11110•••Wang 4 • Improve timeliness of school notification of critical p :____ "r:. •r�•`�°a 1• •E•aa.�,..F�,. A Cw.a.fr.w./a.rwy local incidents ' `dam E — C Nr_._......... • Ensure adequate information provided from other 4. £ `:"amim.a°`d . Mbr..4w0. I; BO.rdaellim._... 10 N•Oa.i.Aa.ew states for incoming new students • '"-"" " o Re-evaluate the need for a Local Juvenile Detention . Center(closed in 2011) and consider existing facilities o The complex governance structure inhibits local control Juvenile standards,forms,and other o Criminal actions should be met with age-appropriate documentation were provided Find consequences, in addition to restorative practices them linked in the 9/19 agenda packet o Assess capacity issues, if any, resulting from 17-year-olds being shifted from the adult to juvenile system by the state legislature in 2021 My goals for sentencing nuisarrue violations are to stop recidivism and ensure t• Support Court Reform If ae defpropertnt pleaeets ds guilty It a defendant pleads guilty or is found guilty of a nuisance violations and the o Truth in sentencing should more closely align prison sentencing range only involves fines,my general procedure is to take the plea and set sentencing at a future date to check for compliance. sentences with actual time served If the property isin compliance at sentencing,I usually impose a lesser tine. Problems with fine judgments: o Explore a Mental Health Court to more effectively redirect Many defendants do not have the flnanctal aalhty to pay tines nonviolent individuals with mental health and substance ^u""'°atco Court reforms have dorm away with fm"onment for(allure topayhe rt the defmdaot flab no rMLC/to pan use disorders. • Advocate for change in the Missouri laws which allow Q .'ii 1 E■ Find expanded court unsupervised children to carry loaded firearms in public • - process information in Felons also exploit young people through this loophole. .4: , . 1:.,4 the 8/15 and 11/6 Monitor the changing legislative landscape in real-time, to i:'": ; ;it agenda packets •ensure local law enforcement does not lose the ability to •_• ' • 4 intervene in a dangerous situation. ❑� • ,11: cityofcape.org/GVTF 16 RECOMMENDATIONS,CONTINUED Empower the community r 0, k,, to lead and continue the • work of violence t z1 .4 k . -V, prevention Ade t �� ,, t a �. 00 • Continue alignment with SOLVE, and encourage a sustained, public health �` ,, r model workgroup to continue o Community models are available such 14 - % . as the Safe City Initiative of Greenville r g,'," ` NC, Omaha360, and others 1", >� ' �` '�' ` ' ,r o Strengthen street outreach and community violence intervention • Encourage enhanced data collection, analysis, and action by working with A partners on community outcomes 4`f'� "' "f • Keep City Council informed to help address systemic issues as they emerge PROMISING PRACTICES: Omaha360 realized that in order to be successful, residents, leaders and others from all parts of the city would need to get engaged in the work "We can analyze what's going on in the city on a weekly basis and triage problems. Police-community relations problems don't fester because we address them right there," says the Omaha Police Chief on their website Omaha 360 started 15 years ago to reduce gun violence "When we first started doing this, law enforcement's role was 80-90% of what we were doing We have progressed to a model of 30-30-30, 30% enforcement, 30% intervention, 30% prevention, it's an ideal mix for a city," said Chief Schmaderer. THE Community Violence Global's approach views violence Cure Violence through an epidemiological lens, as a learned, Theory of Change transmissible behavior, which can be interrupted. CVG trains carefully selected community partners and local credible messengers to detect and interrupt conflict, Stop Interrupt violent events promote safer and healthier behaviors and life transmission beforethey happen directions among high-risk individuals, and build g healthy social norms Identify Project Safe Neighborhoods is coordinated by the U S and change the Reduce number thinking of highest of violent Reduced Attorneys' Offices and customized to account for local potential individuals transmitters violent crime problems and resources Across all districts, PSN follows four key design elements of Create successful violent crime reduction initiatives Change social pressure communityengagement, revention and intervention, community to stop p norms violence focused and strategic enforcement, and accountability. A major goal of PSN is to incorporate research and data analysis, and lessons learned from other violent crime reduction initiatives, to inform its decision- making on the most effective violence reduction strategies 17 RECOMMENDATIONS,CONTINUED CI I.Y GOVERNMEN1 ADVOCACY& PUBLIC PROGRAMS&POLICIES EXTERNAL AGENCIES AWARENESS PERSONAL PROTECTION ACTIONS AND PUBLIC EDUCATION Citizens should take action to protect themselves and others • Secure guns and other valuables at all times. Do not leave guns unattended in unlocked cars Gun thefts were occurring weekly when discussed with the task force. • Visit besmartforkids org, and review other gun safety programs available including Eddie Eagle • Report issues that cannot be resolved at the neighborhood level such as chronic nuisances, suspicious activities, and disorderly and dilapidated properties • Enroll in the Police Department's Security Camera - � Registration Program so local law enforcement can request footage if needed Visit www cityofcape org/police Guide to Secure Gun Storage Devices Amplify other community/public Secure gun storage solutions are not "one- size fits all " One type of storage that may education campaigns work for one gun owner may not work for • Promote campaigns and programs related to another The best kind of gun storage is the financial literacy and safe-healthy lifestyles for type (or types) that you will use consistently families. and that will allow you to secure all firearms • Public education on systemic issues impacting Cape in your home and vehicles, no matter Girardeau including but not limited to the essential whether they are stored together or role of nonprofits, how the public and private separately Find more tips and data at sectors work together, and other report themes BeSMARTforKids.org Firearms are the leading cause of death for American children. Firearm 2,526 Motor Vehicle Traffic 2,240 Cancer 1,444 Congenital 1,020 Anomalies Poisoning 979 0 S DART ART BeSMARTforKids.org 18 ADDITIONAL RESOURCES CRIMINAL &JUVENILE JUSTICE PROCESS&SENTENCING INFORMATION PROVIDED BY PRESENTERS State Court(8/15/24) Kane or Punishment Find in Agenda Packetstion and • Basic Process $ Links in Agenda • Related Statutes T.'.Mg..4o 5MG. r..'" 'l`Tr.1iPdmj.he.ty»dn .ben.m.dmpn.Ity.0 da. G.t,r.l Penalty Pro,f.ton-$.[.1.10. El • Range of Punishment Pursuant toPSyo en 151 ❑ I11 Tb.b.r«m_or fk riol.tlon,0.11 rot eeed 5235.W.TMse are.n general arfensas w,e,e m mare thin, _ point..,.assess.by`D0 1«a ooIatron of the of otf.metr .• 01 Tne,bre r««dnw[e 00010010,1 wnen camdrrd.,tn ca,,costs.0,011 not eacad 0000.0 r«tte not 00100.00. } •!;.:m • • - P 521500f«tM uefo004.0,wlthi,a tl-monu0,1001.$050.00f«tM tnlra,wt.um.num.Il mu.ln a.,iod. . City Court(11/6/24) "d chem°0 00'«""fmtn"""yrub.�`mald't_naltie.uNortzt,p"'°aT 111 The IMltetbn d un secllan apply specifically to penalties auu«u:ed pursuant m rt$r.p.11 1115 nosed and vaso ":1111114"... } • Y�� esi ura 16Mo.ly..901mwkrwl plalm.pl. � F J t' • Types of Cases Iblnall cases«hereth.amedfenumay bemade pnnhade«ilWlbecreated bydlrf«entcw«_ct«nd •1 •7 One«dinarces d 'he c1ty,tM poxcaliry poker m.y elect urde0 rdrkh u eed:1000,rot mere 0Mn me,eco"ary i:. y Lv • Gun Charges d11e«yn �ne a1wer=amt� '''' anf«�e.rae e c Picea a,ana..;se wwl0.0 rp tw..eaon.rfKnmtmscm.«m.rn«g10.z.«,e d„u«rda.city t �'• • Nuisance Violations o";m,�yact",,.genrthe odoam�inddeclaredttobe ead:rdul","me`reero;w�txpenalty n ❑ Range of Punishment �«..t,.�d.t�nf.�,,,�nprarl,10n0100,Boa«.m,«aln,«.«,..det�n,n>,Ironnta�.m • ° awa a, 7,15 n"v.p�«"« °."`.� `nr..'�,eM«"°.d' cit ofca e.or /GVTF eon of0n.,cheror of an wdd,a d re,kles erol y/ p ,01,1_0,0.Eacn daY any vidatipn d.ny prwisim d this Code w 01 any u.-,«ainarce rc�esaldllN 1 p O anN10<«trrwe dull c«nti[l.a separate dleree. Juvenile Office(9/29/24) Exhibit 1 Age-specific arrest rates,2020 • Boys& Girls Club of Southeast Missouri • Five Things About Youth and Delinquency O • Basic Delinquent Process 003 • Missouri State Alliance of YMCAs $ 250 • San Diego County District Attorney Youth Diversion Programming • 20 0 • BJS Indicators of School Crime and Safety 2023 "▪ 150 • Juvenile Detention Assessment Instrument = 100 • Missouri Law Enforcement Juvenile Justice m Guidelines and Recommended Practices • Missouri Juvenile Officer Performance Standards 10 15 20 25 '° 35 40 46 50 55 w 45 2017 OTHER SUBMISSIONS Partial list, see links in agenda packets Gun Violence Task Force Submissions Report(8/22/24) • CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey Data Summary&Trends Report 2013-2023 • Missouri Law Enforcement Juvenile Justice Guidelines and Recommended Practices - 2022 • Firearm Violence.A Public Health Crisis in America The U S Surgeon General's Advisory 2024 • Bleeding Out The Devastating Consequences of Urban Violence - And a Bold New Plan for Peace in the Streets,Thomas Abt, 2019 • Omaha360 by Empower Omaha • Neighborhood, Health/Human, and/or Social Service Committee models at various cities Gun Violence Task Force Submissions Report(9/19/24) • Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS)can be used for any calls don't require a uniformed officer response Traffic hazards/debris in the roadway, certain welfare checks, barricade/cone placement and delivery, and neighborhood patrol are just a few • Project Safe Neighborhoods(referred to by Soundthinking) COPS USDOJ GOV • Property maintenance - thought it interesting what Springfield MO has proposed, "If the owner of a nuisance property lives on the oroperty,the fine would be up to $1000 If the owner doesn't live there,the maximum fine would be up to 82000" 19 f In an average year, 1,378 people EVERYTOWN die and 4,257 are wounded by Gun Violence in guns in Missouri. Missouri has the 4th-highest rate of gun Missouri violence in the US. GUN DEATHS OVER TIME GUN HOMICIDES AND ASSAULTS In Missouri,the rate of gun deaths increased rif; Every year, an average of 614 people in Missouri from 2013 to 2022,compared to a increase die by gun homicides and 1,546 are wounded by nationwide The rate of gun suicides increased 41%and gun assaults—a rate of ! 7 homicides and 25.1 gun homicides increased ` l compared to an 18% assaults per 100,000 people. Missouri has the 4th- increase and 70%increase nationwide, respectively highest rate of gun homicides arid gun assaults in the US. In Missouri,85%of all homicides �--—*-- involve a gun, compared to 78% nationwide. t Gun Homicides By Race/Ethnicity in Missouri ••. • ■-b. COST OF GUN VIOLENCE 8 Missouri has the 7th-highest societal cost of gun violence in the US at$2,875 per resident each year E 5.03.5 N/A N/A Gun deaths and injuries cost Missouri $17.6 billion Black Lagoa Mnre than one White American Aslan/Native race Indian/Alaska Hawaiian/Pacific each year,of which$455.3 million is paid by taxpayers. Native Islander GUN DEATHS BY INTENT INTIMATE PARTNER HOMICIDES In Missouri,53% of gun deaths are suicides In 2020, women were fatally shot by an and 44%are homicides This is compared to intimate partner in Missouri. of female 57%and 40%nationwide, respectively intimate partner homicide victims were killed with a gun, compared to 66% nationwide. Undetermined,<1% Shootings by Police,<1% Unintentional,1 I Female Intimate Partner Homicides by Race/Ethnicity in Missouri Homicides,44% Suicides,53% , 4 k Data on states 8 G e-O and counties: a 6.4 NIA EveryStat.org Black WMm Latina Asian/Native American Hawn,an(Pacific Indian/Aloka Islander Native