South Raleigh News

Governor Roy Cooper has announced the release of North Carolina's inaugural Community Violence Prevention Strategic Plan. The three-year plan, developed by the North Carolina Office of Violence Prevention, aims to address violence and firearm misuse statewide. Governor Cooper established the office in 2023 to enhance coordination among state and local leaders in efforts to improve public safety.

Governor Cooper stated, "Every North Carolinian deserves to feel safe in their homes, schools, and communities. This plan is a roadmap to advancing a public health approach to violence prevention by supporting law enforcement, local communities, grassroots organizations and public health professionals to create safer and healthier communities."

Siarra Scott, acting director of the Office of Violence Prevention, emphasized that "the evidence shows that violence is preventable," adding that the strategic plan offers a roadmap for collaboration informed by dedicated leaders across the state.

Dr. Elizabeth Cuervo Tilson from the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services highlighted the dual focus on public safety and health: “Everyone wants their family, loved ones, and community to be safe. We can do that together by addressing violence as both a public safety and a public health issue.”

The strategic plan identifies three priorities: enhancing collaboration between law enforcement and public health officials; strengthening the workforce involved in violence prevention; and preparing local communities with necessary resources.

The Office of Violence Prevention will host its first statewide professional conference next week in Raleigh. The N.C. Violence Prevention Conference aims to foster connections among over 200 community violence prevention professionals under the theme Building Sustainable Partnerships and Transforming Community Safety.