Governor Kathy Hochul announced a 28% decline in shootings in New York communities participating in the state’s Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) initiative on Wednesday, September 25th. The drop was observed through August 2024, comparing 417 shooting incidents with injury in 2024 to 578 incidents in the same period last year. Hochul emphasized the importance of ongoing efforts to enhance public safety across the state. “Public safety is my number one priority, and protecting New Yorkers and their communities is the foundation of all our efforts,” said Hochul.
The GIVE initiative, which covers 28 police departments in 21 counties, has proven successful in significantly reducing gun violence. Communities like Utica and Yonkers saw the largest declines, with shooting incidents down by 47% and 56%, respectively. Other major areas, including Rochester and Nassau County, also experienced reductions of nearly 40%. Statewide, New York City reported a 12% drop in shootings over the same period.
Governor Hochul’s FY25 Enacted Budget secured nearly $350 million to support gun violence prevention programs. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie praised the results, stating, “Today’s announcement shows that our investment in gun violence prevention is working to make New York safer.” He further highlighted the Assembly’s commitment to continue working with state partners to reduce violence. Similarly, Senate Majority Leader Jamaal Bailey acknowledged the progress made, noting, “By supporting evidence-based strategies like GIVE and community outreach programs like SNUG, we are saving lives and restoring safety.”
The GIVE program is just one component of New York’s broader strategy to combat gun violence. The state also allocated millions for initiatives such as the SNUG Street Outreach Program, which utilizes a public health approach to prevent shootings. This program, supported by $21 million in state funding, focuses on conflict resolution and intervention in communities most affected by gun violence. In addition, $18 million was directed toward New York’s Crime Analysis Centers, which assist local law enforcement with intelligence and crime-solving capabilities.
State Senator Bailey highlighted the impact of these programs, adding, “Focused investments in reducing gun violence are making a real impact. This progress shows the power of a comprehensive approach, combining law enforcement with community-driven efforts to address gun violence at its core.”
With sustained financial support and a multifaceted approach, Governor Hochul reiterated her commitment to making New York a safer place for all its residents, stressing that while progress has been made, the work is far from over.
