Governor Markell discusses “Operation Pressure Point” – a new state anti-crime initiative designed to address violent crime and gun violence. The goal is to create initiative greater coordination between state, federal and local resources in both enforcement and investigation. The effort will start in Wilmington this month with 10 Delaware State troopers being deployed with city police officers to patrol “hot spots” the next year.
Governor’s Weekly Message
Governor Markell discusses “Operation Pressure Point” – a new state anti-crime initiative designed to address violent crime and gun violence.
Full text of Governor Jack Markell’s weekly message:
Violent crime affects every aspect of society. Kids don’t learn as well, businesses won’t grow as fast, and communities struggle to thrive in places where the fear of violent crime flourishes.
So many brave men and women across our state became law enforcement officials to tackle this challenge.
They put themselves on the line each to protect and serve their communities and their neighbors. To say to crime and the criminals that commit them – enough. We are a state of laws and responsibility and Delawareans deserve to feel safe in their homes.
Like most challenges in Delaware, we work most effectively to tackle challenges when we work together.
That’s one of the guiding principles behind “Operation: Pressure Point” – a coordinated anti-crime initiative designed to tackle gun violence and violent crime. The initiative has two phases – enforcement and investigation – each of which involve greater coordination between state, federal and local resources to fight crime directly.
The idea of a ‘pressure point’ is fitting. This is not a single, quick strike designed to reduce crime, but a deliberate application of additional force where it can make the greatest impact to protect public safety.
It’s about focusing the resources of probation and parole officers to focus on those most likely to offend; alcohol and tobacco enforcement and Highway Safety to recognize the link between illegal substances and violent crime; and the Attorney General’s office for effective prosecution.
It’s also about connecting police intelligence across the state to identify high-risk offenders, gangs and drug-trafficking organizations and about targeting, developing evidence on, and prosecuting cases against these persons and groups who cause the most violent crime.
This effort will begin most visibly in Wilmington. The state received specific requests and a very clear call from Wilmington community leaders, local elected officials and the state’s Black Caucus for state police resources to help City Police in their efforts. We have heard that request, and answered.
This weekend, ten Delaware State Police will be joining forces in the City in areas local police have designated “hotspots” to help city officers in their noble work. Our Troopers are looking forward to adding their efforts and being a visible presence of support and help.
Across the state, this will not be easy. It requires teamwork, and time. It demands focus, and effort. But it ensures that, when it comes to combating gun violence and violent crime, we are fully aligned in our efforts and outcomes – which is to save lives and keep Delaware, moving forward.
