Community Safety Innovations - John Jay College Research and Evaluation Center

New York State Initiatives to Strengthen Public Safety

by
Justice Evans, Elia Del Carmen Solano-Patricio, Rebecca Balletto, Kathleen A. Tomberg and Jeffrey A. Butts

Research and Evaluation Center
John Jay College of Criminal Justice
City University of New York
June 2025

Preface

Officials from New York State government asked researchers at John Jay College of Criminal Justice to assess the community safety benefits derived from State investments in violence prevention initiatives managed at the county level. As of 2014, nearly two dozen counties in New York operated at least one of the violence prevention models funded by the State. The scale of the investments expanded significantly after 2021.

John Jay College researchers from the Research and Evaluation Center (JohnJayREC) and Data Collaborative for Justice (DCJ) began by examining changes in the incidence and rate of serious and violent offenses at the county level between 2010 and 2023 in an attempt to detect the effects of these efforts to build community safety. While the analysis was not funded at a level that would support a rigorous evaluation, the resulting report revealed encouraging indicators that would suggest the State’s investments may have lowered the occurrence of violence and increased the safety and security of neighborhoods across New York. Given the scale and scope of previous investments, policymakers could be well-advised to investigate further with an intentional and more robust approach to evaluation.

In addition to estimating the potential effects of the State’s efforts, the research team at John Jay College collected detailed information about four key initiatives: 1) the SNUG program, 2) Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE), 3) Project Respond, Invest, Sustain, and Empower (RISE), and 4) the network of Crime Analysis Centers (CACs). Researchers conducted interviews and discussions with State agency staff and various leaders involved in the oversight and operations of the initiatives. Using a semi-structured interview approach, the research team gathered insights on the goals and structures of the initiatives, their funding, variations and challenges in implementation, and how progress could be assessed to inform future improvements. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed in an aggregated, de-identified format to ensure the confidentiality and privacy of respondents.

Introduction

In the United States and across the globe, firearm violence is a public health crisis. According to the Global Burden of Disease 2016 Injury Collaborators, more than 250,000 people worldwide died from firearm injuries in 2016, a 21 percent increase compared with 1990. The United States stands out with a high firearm death rate (Naghavi et al. 2018). In 2016, the U.S. firearm death rate was 10.6 per 100,000 people, significantly higher than nations such as France (2.7), Canada (2.1), and Australia (1.0) (Gramlich 2023).

New York State is a case study of American gun violence and the complex dynamics of laws, policies, and programs designed to reduce the harms of firearm violence. Despite having the 5th lowest gun death rate in the country in 2022, the gun fatality rate increased 26 percent between 2013 and 2022 (Center for Gun Violence Solutions 2024).

Recognizing the human impact of gun violence and its significant economic consequences — $11.4 billion annually for New Yorkers — state officials implemented several strategies specifically designed to address the issue (Center for Gun Violence Solutions 2024). One important precursor was the passage of the New York Secure Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement (SAFE) Act of 2013, which introduced stricter gun control measures, including background checks, magazine capacity limits, and an assault weapons ban (New York State Senate 2013a).

New York addresses gun violence with a combination of gun control measures, community-based interventions, and enforcement coordination. Efforts focus on conflict mediation, job training, outreach to high-risk individuals, and intelligence-sharing networks that provide analytical support to aid investigations and public safety. This comprehensive approach reflects New York’s commitment to protecting communities.

The following report describes four New York initiatives:

1) SNUG (guns spelled backward), a community-level intervention program largely inspired by the Cure Violence approach,

2) GIVE (Gun Involved Violence Elimination), inspired by law enforcement and place-based models,

3) Project RISE (Respond, Invest, Sustain and Empower), and

4) An expansion of the State’s network of Crime Analysis Centers (CAC).

SNUG

SNUG (guns spelled backward) is a New York State-funded violence prevention initiative administered by the Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). SNUG is designed to reduce gun violence in New York communities most harmed by crime. The initiative relies on outreach workers, social workers, case managers, and hospital responders to engage high-risk youth and young adults to address the root causes of violence and enhance community safety.

Through community engagement and the work of culturally competent outreach workers, known as “violence interrupters” or “credible messengers,” SNUG seeks to transform communities, reduce gun violence, save lives, and foster a safer environment through positive changes in attitudes and actions.

The program originally followed the Cure Violence model from Chicago but continued to evolve under DCJS leadership. Each program’s direction, oversight, and accountability were strengthened and expanded. By 2017, DCJS developed comprehensive training programs and strengthened the initiative’s management, including a custom database to track program operations and provide oversight.

Structure

SNUG programs operate in 14 communities through a network of host agencies. Community-based organizations and medical centers receiving SNUG funding implement the program in neighborhoods throughout New York. A statewide program director and training director collaborate to oversee the sites, ensuring consistency in staff training, sound operational procedures, and cooperative relationships with local law enforcement agencies. The core elements of SNUG are the outreach workers who are deeply rooted in the communities they serve and recruited based on their firsthand experience with neighborhood violence and criminal justice contact. Credible messengers connect with at-risk youth, offering guidance and support to promote positive life skills.

Initial Funding & Evaluation

In 2009, the New York State Senate secured a $500,000 grant to pilot SNUG. The funding enabled DCJS to introduce SNUG in 10 communities affected by gun violence, including Albany, Brooklyn, Harlem, Buffalo, Niagara Falls, Syracuse, Rochester, Yonkers, Queens, and Mount Vernon. Soon thereafter, additional funding was awarded to Brooklyn, Yonkers, Harlem, Albany, and Niagara Falls (Klofas et al. 2013).

The Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) received funding to evaluate SNUG in 2013, assessing its impact in Albany, Niagara Falls, Yonkers, Harlem, and Brooklyn. Combining site data and crime statistics, researchers examined SNUG’s adherence to the CeaseFire Chicago model, community engagement, and impact on shootings and other serious crimes (Klofas et al. 2013). The study found a positive correlation between SNUG’s implementation and reduced shootings, and it underscored the need for sustained funding and continued data collection to measure long-term outcomes. Recognizing SNUG’s positive impact, as documented by DCJS and RIT’s evaluation, the state soon invested an additional $3 million to ensure the program’s continued operation and expansion (New York State Senate 2013b).

We work closely with the Crime Analysis Centers and the police departments where they are giving us monthly updates. They’re giving us shooting maps. We look at some of those things and say, what is the area that we need to focus on a little more? Who has the influence of our staff in that area? Who can talk to the people that might be causing it… If we don’t have anybody that has influence in that area, we can make some hiring decisions… our guys have a daily meeting before they go out to talk about what’s going on, the neighborhoods, trends, and things like that. We would use that meeting to say, listen, this neighborhood has been active lately. Maybe we should spend some time in this neighborhood; who are the groups over here, and who could talk to the groups? So the data does drive our work.
— DCJS Staff Member commenting on SNUG

Continued Funding & Structural Reforms

Structural reforms were implemented following RIT’s evaluation to enhance SNUG’s effectiveness. According to DCJS staff, the changes included increased oversight, the development of a new training manual, and the establishment of the database. Monthly reports tracked performance indicators – such as the number of shootings, community events, and participant outcomes – to maintain accountability, identify trends, and guide program adjustments. In response to the funding challenges highlighted in RIT’s evaluation, New York leaders increased the SNUG budget in Fiscal Year 2017-18, focusing on specific geographic areas (Giffords Law Center 2017). By July 2017, SNUG was operating street outreach programs in 11 sites across New York State.

Building on these reforms and advancements, DCJS and the Office of Victim Services launched the SNUG Social Work Initiative in 2018. The program embedded trauma-informed social workers at SNUG sites to provide trauma-informed care, therapy, and advocacy, alongside a case manager. For hospital-based sites, case managers supplemented these efforts by working with hospital social workers to deliver immediate assistance, conflict mediation, safety planning, and trauma education. Researchers from the University at Albany found the initiative significantly enhanced staff capacity to manage complex cases, benefiting staff and the community (NYS DCJS Research Consortium 2023).

Shortly after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and in response to the surge in gun violence throughout New York state, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo declared a state of emergency in 2021 (Vielkind and Chapman 2021). As part of a seven-point plan, the state government allocated $139 million to various initiatives, including doubling funding for SNUG. While the increase created new opportunities, DCJS staff noted that staff and technical assistance were still needed.

When the social workers and case manager came in 2019, this was a tremendous thing… because our workers were not trained to deal with a lot of the trauma… We weren’t equipped to deal with household traumas going on… We were taught that we only dealt with the participant. [Since 2019, we] do wraparound service for the whole household.
— DCJS Staff Member commenting on SNUG

In April 2022, Governor Kathy Hochul announced $1.5 million in state funding to expand SNUG Street Outreach programs to Niagara Falls, Schenectady, and Utica (NYS DCJS 2022b). Building on this progress, in December 2023, New York invested an additional $20.3 million to strengthen SNUG outreach efforts. The increased funding supported community-based organizations and hospitals, providing resources for outreach workers, hospital responders, social workers, and credible messengers to combat gun violence (Office of the Governor 2023b).

Perceptions

Given the devastating consequences of gun violence, many have recognized Governor Hochul for her commitment to addressing the issue. DCJS Commissioner Rossana Rosado states: “We thank Governor Hochul for increasing funds to expand SNUG street outreach teams and other gun violence prevention efforts. These teams play a crucial role in combatting gun violence by using credible messengers to reach out to those more at risk and supporting better alternatives for youth” (NYS DCJS 2022a).

DCJS leaders also emphasize that the sustained financial support has been instrumental in several areas of SNUG, including employee retention. High turnover rates, particularly among outreach workers, initially posed a serious challenge. However, SNUG achieved added stability and consistency across program sites with increased funding and a greater ability to offer competitive salaries.

Current Status

As of 2025, the SNUG Street Outreach program operates in 14 New York communities: Albany, the Bronx, Buffalo, Hempstead, Mount Vernon, Newburgh, Poughkeepsie, Niagara Falls, Rochester, Syracuse, Troy, Utica, Wyandanch, and Yonkers. A 2025 budget allocation of $20.7 million for community-based organizations and hospitals will cover staff, programming, services, equipment, and technology (Office of the Governor 2025c). While implementation strategies may differ due to specific community needs, the core mission of violence reduction, data collection, and community engagement remained consistent across all sites.

GIVE

The Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) Initiative, administered by DCJS, supports gun violence reduction efforts in high-crime areas outside of New York City. Launched in 2014, GIVE employs a multi-faceted approach, providing crucial resources and support to law enforcement agencies and communities seeking to disrupt the cycle of gun violence (Giffords Law Center 2017).

Structure

DCJS awards funding to eligible law enforcement agencies, district attorneys, probation offices, and sheriff departments within participating counties. Annual funding allocations vary. Total support rose from $13 million in 2014 to $36 million in 2025-2026 (Office of the Governor 2024a). Funds are distributed to participating agencies according to need and each program’s implementation plan. Agencies then collaborate to develop comprehensive violence elimination plans with attention to evidence-based strategies. GIVE agencies partner with community organizations to streamline the provision of social services and outreach.

I think one of the important things we developed is what we call the implementation assessment tool. Over the years, we’ve learned about the importance of implementation science, especially when we have expanded to new sites. We knew that we needed to primarily focus on implementing these things and creating the foundation for them to allow for long-term success…
— DCJS Staff Member commenting on GIVE

DCJS provides comprehensive training and technical assistance to GIVE jurisdictions, progressing from broad introductions to highly specialized support (Giffords Law Center 2017). Initially, DCJS hosted statewide meetings introducing grantees to evidence-based strategies and the initiative’s core components. GIVE integrates these strategies with enhanced crime analyses and problem-oriented policing. For example, participating law enforcement agencies are provided with funding, training, and technical assistance to implement strategies like focused deterrence, hot spot policing, street outreach, and crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED).

DCJS’s technical assistance is tailored to specific needs in each jurisdiction and often includes subject-matter experts who provide direct support with implementation challenges. To facilitate continuous improvement and accountability, DCJS may collect data to track and evaluate program performance. This can be done through partnerships with crime analysis centers in participating counties. The CACs work alongside police department analysts to provide real-time data and insights about violent crime. The information helps GIVE jurisdictions plan their violence reduction efforts. To ensure accountability, GIVE grantees must report gun-related crime statistics to DCJS quarterly (Giffords Law Center 2017).

DCJS also fosters a robust information-sharing network through regular communication and in-person conferences, enabling grantees to share best practices, learn from one another’s experiences, and refine their efforts. This ensures that all jurisdictions receive the necessary resources, support, and oversight needed for effective implementation.

GIVE’s community engagement includes street outreach programs that attempt to prevent gun violence by intervening in brewing conflicts, connecting high-risk individuals with needed resources, and promoting anti-violence messages across communities. While GIVE and SNUG aim to reduce gun violence through direct action, GIVE efforts include collaboration with law enforcement (NYS DCJS 2015). SNUG relies on community resources and organizes credible messengers who work with residents to mediate conflicts, address the effects of trauma, and conduct street outreach efforts.

Timeline and Funding

GIVE evolved from 2004’s Operation IMPACT (Integrated Municipal Police Anti-crime Teams), which targeted the same counties and saw positive results in reducing overall crime. Over time, jurisdictions eventually shifted the focus due to heightened concerns about the persistence of firearm-related incidents in high-crime areas. Formally launched in 2014, GIVE initially focused on law enforcement funding for equipment and overtime. However, a growing emphasis on evidence-based strategies and community engagement led to mandatory training, technical assistance, and a shift away from enforcement alone to preventive goals.

According to DCJS staff, the program expanded in response to rising gun violence coinciding with the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Funding then increased yearly, supporting 28 jurisdictions in 21 counties by 2025 (NYS DCJS n.d.). The expansion resulted in the addition of field advisors, expanded training, and introduced new requirements such as mandatory GIVE coordinator positions in the largest jurisdictions. These changes ensured the program could effectively achieve its goals while maintaining fidelity despite the wider scope.

Perceptions

Governor Kathy Hochul pointed to GIVE’s role in the decline of crime rates across New York: “We’ve brought gun violence down to historic lows – and we’re giving local law enforcement agencies more of the resources needed to keep tackling crime” (Office of the Governor 2024a). “These positive trends,” according to DCJS Commissioner Rossana Rosado, “are a testament to the collective work done by our GIVE partner agencies, SNUG Street Outreach programs, and other community-based organizations that we fund and support. This holistic approach recognizes that enforcement alone doesn’t make neighborhoods safer. We must embrace services that address the needs of individuals and families disproportionately affected by gun violence…” (Office of the Governor 2024a).

DCJS staff see GIVE as an improved version of its predecessor, Operation IMPACT, by introducing greater structure, oversight, and hands-on support. To help jurisdictions adapt, GIVE emphasized training and technical assistance from the start, evolving to more intensive one-on-one support and “train the trainer” models. Increased staffing also helped to ensure that participating jurisdictions would receive the resources and guidance needed for effective implementation.

Evaluations

Ongoing data analysis is crucial for program improvement and ensuring effective resource allocation. In 2016, the Rochester Institute of Technology conducted a three-year evaluation wherein researchers collected data through site visits, phone calls, interviews with stakeholders, and monthly statistics on gun violence from the initial 17 GIVE jurisdictions (Clark et al. n.d., Macano et al. 2019). Researchers assessed implementation quality, capacity, and adherence to the model to determine which strategies or characteristics of jurisdictions, if any, were most associated with reduced violence.

DCJS continues to use self-assessment tools that help participating jurisdictions assess their implementation of GIVE strategies. While the tool is primarily used for self-assessment and improvement, the data also provide valuable insights for DCJS’s use in statewide analyses and efforts to identify areas needing implementation assistance and support.

Current Status

The GIVE program continues to evolve, focusing on incorporating best practices and community engagement. As of 2025, the initiative supported 28 agencies across New York state. Funding for 2025 was set at $36 million (Office of the Governor 2024a). Early impressions suggest the program is correlated with decreasing gun violence incidents, injuries, and fatalities (NYS DCJS 2025).

Project RISE

Project RISE (Respond, Invest, Sustain, and Empower) aims to uplift ten communities disproportionately affected by gun violence and improve public safety. Community-based organizations in each area receive up to $2 million to implement and improve programs and services that increase opportunities for youth and families, build the capacity of grassroots programs to expand their reach, and strengthen neighborhoods. The initiative attempts to address the root causes of gun violence through prevention and intervention strategies, fostering collaboration and trust between government agencies and community organizations to create long-term change. Project RISE focuses on four key areas: responding to immediate needs, investing in prevention strategies, sustaining long-term support, and empowering communities (DeLine 2023). Local stakeholders develop comprehensive plans to address the unique needs of their neighborhoods (Office of the Governor 2022).

[DCJS also looked at] some of the underlying factors contributing to violence in the community. What do communities need in the aftermath to kind of heal? What services are available? What’s lacking? What’s missing? Who are the right people? Who are the people that the community trusts and is going to go to and really engage in, to do services with, and to work alongside? And what are key things that the community wants to fund? So there are themes like positive youth development, mental and behavioral health, vocational educational opportunities for young people, and safe spaces.
— DCJS Staff Member on Project RISE

Project RISE prioritizes community-led planning and decision-making with two main tenets: equity and healing. Investments in leading community-based organizations that fund other grassroots organizations recognize the vital role of smaller, on-the-ground groups in addressing local challenges. The larger, established organizations receive and manage grants and mentor the smaller organizations, helping them to grow and expand their reach.

Project RISE integrates mental health services, community engagement, family engagement, and wraparound services to ensure a holistic approach to violence prevention and intervention. By working with established community organizations, Project RISE builds the capacity of communities to sustain program effectiveness over time, ensuring that the positive impact of the initiative endures beyond the initial funding period.

Structure

Project RISE utilizes a multi-layered organizational structure and a block grant funding model to ensure resources effectively reach grassroots organizations and are responsive to local needs. DCJS provides technical assistance, program oversight, and funding to each jurisdiction with a community-driven process (Office of the Governor 2022).

Seven jurisdictions were initially identified for Project RISE based on poverty levels, demographics, and gun violence. Each community formed local steering committees (up to 20 members) to represent community interests, prioritize problems and solutions, and identify relevant organizations to address the origins of violence. Steering committees comprised 50/50 splits between community members and “system” representatives, including law enforcement, probation, schools, mental health providers, and larger community-based organizations. DCJS facilitated listening sessions and workshops to identify additional contributing factors to violence and community needs, drawing upon local expertise and priorities.

The biggest part of this project was how do we rebuild that trust in government… The way we rebuild is through transparency because we hear about it in community meetings all the time. “All this money comes from the State, and we never see what happens with it.” Or “we don’t have a voice at the table.“ So really the project was about giving the community that voice and being totally transparent throughout the process about who was getting the money, where it was going…
— DCJS Staff Member on Project RISE

Steering committees selected lead organizations for their ability to manage reimbursement-based contracts and guide the development of community-based strategies. Organizations chosen through a competitive process received funding from DCJS and were responsible for distributing portions of it to smaller grassroots organizations. The grassroots organizations, often overlooked by traditional funding streams, served as the backbone of the initiative. They delivered a wide range of essential services, including trauma-informed services, opportunities for youth, vocational training and life skills, after-school programs, job training, victim support, and conflict resolution training.

The collaborative structure of Project RISE, involving DCJS, local steering committees, lead organizations, and grassroots organizations, continues to ensure that resources are effectively allocated and that programs are tailored to the unique needs of each community.

Timeline & Funding

Governor Hochul launched Project RISE with an initial allocation of $28 million in April 2022 as part of a larger $227 million investment in gun violence initiatives across the state (Office of the Governor 2022). Community listening sessions and stakeholder workshops were held in seven cities in June 2022, followed by the release of a comprehensive funding application in July 2022. Awards were made on a rolling basis throughout 2022 and 2023.

In December 2024, the governor announced $20 million to fight gun violence and improve safety in three additional communities: Hempstead, Troy, and Utica. Steering committees worked with DCJS to develop plans for using the first year of funding. Each community could receive up to $2 million for programs supporting youth, families, and local organizations (Office of the Governor 2024d).

Perceptions

As of 2024, Project RISE had not been formally evaluated. However, the initiative continued to receive positive attention from various stakeholders. Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said, “The City of Syracuse Mayor’s Office to Reduce Gun Violence has been in operation for just six months and is already creating new levels of cooperation and partnership in our community. The Office is also developing a comprehensive strategy based on data and engagement with stakeholders to finally turn back gun violence in Syracuse. There is no question the pandemic has exacerbated the root causes that contribute to gun violence” (Office of the Governor 2022).

DCJS Commissioner Rossana Rosado stated: “As we continue driving down crime, it is crucial that we invest in our communities and ensure that they have the resources needed to heal. This funding does that by helping enable small grassroots organizations to make a big impact by enhancing, expanding, and adding services” (Office of the Governor 2024d).

New York State Senator Jamaal Bailey stated: “By supporting evidence-based strategies like the GIVE initiative, community outreach through SNUG, and models such as Project RISE, we are not only saving lives but also restoring safety and trust in our neighborhoods” (Office of the Governor 2024b).

Within DCJS, there is a strong belief in the power of community-based approaches to combat gun violence. Staff highlighted success stories about young people excelling in sports or finding successful career paths because of the positive impact of Project RISE. The program created valuable skill development and entrepreneurship opportunities, exposing participants to new possibilities. By expanding access to skill-based pathways, Project RISE helped change the trajectory of young lives, benefiting participants, their families, and communities.

Current Status

Project RISE remained an active initiative in 2025. The Governor’s Office and DCJS leaders were optimistic about its potential impact on community safety. The program supports numerous community-based organizations, including smaller grassroots groups that previously lacked access to state funding. Project RISE currently operates with a $20 million budget in ten cities across New York State: Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, Newburgh, Mount Vernon, and Yonkers, with an expansion announced in 2024 involving Hempstead, Troy, and Utica (Office of the Governor 2024d). Funding for the program may vary annually. Moving forward, ongoing evaluation and data analysis are likely to be crucial to assess the program’s effectiveness and inform future improvements. Sustaining the positive impact of Project RISE will require continued support and funding.

CAC Network

Law enforcement agencies and other partners use New York’s Crime Analysis Centers network to effectively address crime with data-driven analysis, collaborative strategies, and seamless information sharing. Building on this foundation, DCJS partnered with local law enforcement and launched the first three Crime Analysis Centers in 2008, located in Monroe (Rochester), Erie (Buffalo), and Onondaga (Syracuse) counties. The network, supported by DCJS, has since grown to 11 CACs throughout New York state.

In 2025, DCJS staff reported to researchers that New York’s CACs were multi-jurisdictional units that enhance law enforcement’s ability to combat violent crime. By providing various analytical and investigative services (e.g., hotspot analysis, pattern detection, top offender identification, supervised GPS monitoring, case-level analysis, facial recognition, ShotSpotter gunshot detection, and tactical guidance), the CAC network supports investigations and can respond to specific information requests.

Structure

DCJS provides primary administrative oversight and support of the CAC network’s operations in collaboration with local law enforcement agencies and New York’s District Attorney offices, who play significant roles in shaping the specific functions and services at each site, tailoring them to meet local demands. At the leadership level, experienced directors oversee the operations of each CAC. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a dedicated team of analysts. Lead crime analysts supervise staff, coordinate projects, and manage staff development. Crime analysts, recruited from diverse backgrounds, collect, compile, and validate data to generate valuable intelligence. Additionally, partner agency staff contribute their expertise to enhance the Center’s network, investigative support, intelligence development, and specific subject matter knowledge.

Each CAC has local characteristics, but all are structured similarly. Each Center is overseen by a Board of Directors, which includes the Chief of the largest police department in its county, the County Sheriff, the District Attorney, representatives from Probation and Parole, the State Police, and the DCJS Commissioner. The Board meets quarterly to review policies and approve new partnerships, ensuring coordinated decision-making across the network. Centers are strategically located within an existing law enforcement agency or government facility, fostering strong partnerships, and enabling seamless integration with local law enforcement efforts.

Funding & Subsequent Advancements

CACs leverage advanced technology to reduce crime. Significant state investments have driven their growth, including a $370,000 expansion in 2016 for Albany’s CAC, adding a video wall to display real-time data from systems to “help solve crimes, catch criminals, aid victims and create a stronger and safer Capital Region for all” (NYS DCJS 2016).

In 2023, Governor Hochul allocated $500,000 to expand the Capital Region CAC and introduce advanced ballistics processing, cutting shell casing analysis time from a month to 24–48 hours with 99.6 percent accuracy. In addition, all ten centers partnered with the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), accessing the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network for streamlined multi-jurisdictional case analysis (Office of the Governor 2023a).

Perceptions

DCJS staff described CACs as supportive agencies that provide essential intelligence and investigative resources to law enforcement partners. In November 2024, the CAC network was granted an Excellence in the Field of Criminal Justice award by the U.S. Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Assistance (Office of the Governor 2024c). The CACs enable law enforcement to address crime, particularly violent crime, with greater efficacy. However, due to their indirect nature, isolating and measuring the precise impact of CACs on crime rates is challenging.

Nevertheless, despite the indirect nature of their work, DCJS and government staff highlight the significant success of the CACs in establishing a robust network that enhances collaborative crime analysis statewide. When examining specific cases, DCJS staff report that CACs have proven instrumental in helping law enforcement solve various types of crimes. For instance, in January 2024, the Capital Region CAC swiftly analyzed information related to a shooting in Albany, enabling law enforcement to apprehend a suspect within two hours (Levy 2024). In addition to providing direct support for criminal investigations and prosecutions, CAC services assist law enforcement agencies in adopting evidence-based policing practices and long-term crime reduction strategies within their communities.

In January 2025, DCJS Commissioner Rossana Rosado praised the state’s investments and said that “Governor Hochul’s support for our local law enforcement and community partners has been unprecedented. These proposals will further expand information and data sharing among local, state, and federal agencies and leverage technology to allow agencies to continue to drive down crime and improve public safety” (Office of the Governor 2025a).

Current Status

Today, New York CACs are multi-agency units that utilize data analysis to understand crime trends and patterns. In 2025, Governor Hochul allocated $18 million to the Crime Analysis Center Network as part of a broader investment in public safety initiatives. The Governor added $13 million to the Fiscal Year 2026 budget to establish the New York State Crime Analysis and Joint Special Operations Command Headquarters (Office of the Governor 2025b). Each CAC operates as an information-sharing hub, providing tactical support, analytical resources, and investigation assistance upon request. The components of the CACs include dedicated analysts, data systems to monitor trends and crime patterns, and partnerships with federal entities (e.g., ATF, FBI), the National Guard, and regional law enforcement agencies. This multi-agency approach allows CACs to gather and analyze a broad range of data for effective crime-solving support. According to DCJS, the 11 existing CACs currently assist over 350 local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies across New York state (Office of the Governor 2025a).

Conclusion

In 2025, New York Governor Kathy Hochul dedicated $347 million to support statewide efforts to reduce and prevent gun violence and enhance public safety, with another $370 million scheduled for 2026 (Division of the Budget 2024, Division of the Budget 2025). The investments support programs emphasizing community-based solutions, law enforcement coordination, and data-driven strategies to create greater safety for all New Yorkers.

The expansion of New York’s network of Crime Analysis Centers enhances real-time intelligence sharing and helps law enforcement agencies coordinate responses more effectively. The GIVE initiative strengthens partnerships between law enforcement and communities to address gun violence more strategically. Programs like SNUG and Project RISE prioritize community engagement, focusing on violence interruption and prevention by supporting at-risk individuals and neighborhood residents in general rather than relying solely on traditional policing.

By combining applied technology, coordinated law enforcement, and comprehensive prevention, New York is developing holistic, evidence-oriented strategies to improve public safety that other states may be able to replicate.

Funding
The New York Governor’s Office provided funding support for this analysis through a contract between the State’s Division of Criminal Justice Services and the Research and Evaluation Center at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, but all conclusions are those of the authors. Funders and partners of the Research and Evaluation Center are not responsible for findings in our publications.

Acknowledgments
The authors appreciate the guidance received from staff in the Office of the New York Deputy Secretary for Public Safety and the Division of Criminal Justice Services, who helped to conceptualize the analysis presented in this report and who reviewed drafts of project deliverables as they became available. They helped to shape the final product by sharing valuable insights during interviews and information-gathering sessions with JohnJayREC researchers.

Recommended Citation
Evans, Justice, Elia Del Carmen Solano-Patricio, Rebecca Balletto, Kathleen A. Tomberg and Jeffrey A. Butts (2025). Community Safety Innovations — New York State Initiatives to Strengthen Public Safety. New York, NY: John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York.

References

Center for Gun Violence Solutions (2024). Gun Violence in New York Fact Sheet. Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Baltimore, MD: Author.

Clark, Lisa, Jamie Dougherty, Jason Willis, and Alysia Mason (n.d.). Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) Initiative. Center for Public Safety Initiatives. Accessed on February 11, 2025.

DeLine, Jamie (2023, July 31). Project RISE Funding Community Organizations Aimed at Preventing Gun Violence. News10 ABC.

Division of the Budget (2024, April 22). Governor Hochul Announces Historic Investments of FY 2025 New York State Budget [press release]. Albany, NY: New York State Division of the Budget.

Division of the Budget (2025, January 21). Governor Hochul Unveils Highlights of FY 2026 Executive Budget [press release]. Albany, NY: New York State Division of the Budget.

Giffords Law Center (2017). Investing in Intervention: The Critical Role of State-level Support in Breaking the Cycle of Urban Gun Violence. San Francisco, CA: Author.

Gramlich, John (2023, April 26). What the Data Says About Gun Deaths in the U.S. Washington, DC: Pew Research Center.

Klofas, John, Janelle Duda, Christopher Schreck, and O. Nicholas Robertson (2013). SNUG Evaluation. Rochester, NY: Center for Public Safety Initiatives, Rochester Institute of Technology.

Levy, Dan (2024, January 4). Crime Analysis Center’s Quick Work Helped Catch Albany Shooting Suspect. Albany, NY: WNYT News Channel 13.

Macano, Kayla, Janelle Duda-Banwar, Irshad Altheimer, John Klofas (2019). The New York State Gun Violence Involved Elimination Initiative. Center for Public Safety Initiatives, Rochester Institute of Technology.

Naghavi Mohsen et al. (2018). Global Mortality from Firearms, 1990-2016. Journal of the American Medical Association, 320(8), 792-814.

New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (NYS DCJS) (n.d.). Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) Initiative. Accessed on February 11, 2025. Albany, NY: Author.

New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (NYS DCJS) (2015). Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) Initiative 2014 Annual Report. Albany, NY: Author.

New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (NYS DCJS) (2016, December 20). Governor Cuomo Announces Expansion of Crime Analysis Center in Albany [press release]. Albany, NY: Author.

New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (NYS DCJS) (2022a, March 9). Governor Hochul Announces New SNUG Street Outreach Staff Trained to Deploy into Communities to Tackle Gun Violence Epidemic [press release]. Albany, NY: Author.

New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (NYS DCJS) (2022b, April 29). Governor Hochul Announces Expansion of State’s SNUG Street Outreach Program to Niagara Falls, Schenectady and Utica to Reduce Gun Violence [press release]. Albany, NY: Author.

New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (NYS DCJS) (2025). Monthly GIVE Shooting Activity Report: Issue Date February 10, 2025. Accessed on February 14, 2025. Albany, NY: Author.

New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (NYS DCJS) Research Consortium (2023). SNUG Social Work Initiative Research Brief. New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services. Albany, NY: Author.

New York State Senate (2013a). S.B. S2230 NY Secure Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement (SAFE) Act of 2013. Albany, NY: Author.

New York State Senate (2013b). Senator Kennedy Announces Funds Secured for At-Risk Youth [press release]. Albany, NY: Author.

Office of the Governor (2022, October 24). Governor Hochul Announces $28 Million to Combat Gun Violence, Increase Opportunity for Youth and Strengthen Public Safety in Seven Cities Across New York State [press release]. Albany, NY: Author.

Office of the Governor (2023a, January 24). Governor Hochul Announces Expansion of the Capital Regional Crime Analysis Center and Highlights State of the State Proposals to Increase Funding for Local Law Enforcement Agencies [press release]. Albany, NY: Author.

Office of the Governor (2023b, December 14). Governor Hochul Announces $20 Million to Support SNUG Street Outreach Programs in 14 Communities Across New York State [press release]. Albany, NY: Author.

Office of the Governor (2024a, June 13). Governor Hochul Announces 28% Decline in Shootings and Awards Nearly $36 Million to Local Law Enforcement [press release]. Albany, NY: Author.

Office of the Governor (2024b, September 25). Governor Hochul Announces 28% Decline in Shootings in Communities Across New York [press release]. Albany, NY: Author.

Office of the Governor (2024c, November 22). With Violence and Crime Down Across New York, Governor Hochul Announces National Recognition of State’s One-of-a-Kind Network of Crime Analysis Centers [press release]. Albany, NY: Author.

Office of the Governor (2024d, December 20). Safer Streets: Governor Hochul Announces $20 Million to Prevent Violence, Uplift 10 Communities and Improve Public Safety Across New York State [press release]. Albany, NY: Author.

Office of the Governor (2025a, January 11). Safer Streets: Governor Hochul Proposes First-in-the-Nation Crime Analysis and Joint Special Operations Command Headquarters [press release]. Albany, NY: Author.

Office of the Governor (2025b, January 24). Governor Hochul Announces Expansion of the Suffolk Crime Analysis Center [press release]. Albany, NY: Author.

Office of the Governor (2025c, February 3). Safer Streets: Governor Hochul Announces $20.7 Million for Community Outreach Programs to Reduce Gun Violence and Save Lives in 14 Communities Across New York State [press release]. Albany, NY: Author.