DeKalb County, Georgia – The DeKalb County Police Department (DKPD) is launching a big conversation with the community about ways to reduce violent crime in local neighborhoods. This is the first time they’re doing something like this, and it’s part of an exciting three-year plan.
This initiative is tied to the Public Safety Partnership (PSP), a program by the Department of Justice (DOJ). The program helps communities use smart strategies to tackle crime, focusing on things like gun violence, crime patterns, and better use of technology. DeKalb County joined the program last December, and over the next three years, the DOJ will study how the county handles safety issues. They’ll also give advice and resources to make things even better.
So far, the police department has already made good progress. From 2023 to 2024, they reported a 14% drop in violent crime. Now, they’re hoping this new partnership will help keep that trend going, making the area even safer for everyone.
Being part of the PSP program is a big deal for DeKalb County. Out of the entire country, only 20 places were chosen for this program, and DeKalb is the first in Georgia to join. The partnership brings together several powerful organizations, including the FBI, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office. Together, they’ll work on finding new and better ways to tackle crime.
The police department is calling this effort a groundbreaking step toward making neighborhoods safer. They’re excited about the chance to team up with federal and local agencies to come up with creative ways to fight crime.
Why does this matter? Public safety impacts everyone in DeKalb County. Whether it’s families, business owners, or anyone living in the area, everyone benefits from safer streets and neighborhoods. With this partnership, DeKalb County gets access to top-notch resources and expertise, which could make a real difference.
The first big step in this plan happens soon. On January 16, the police department will hold a listening session where residents can share their thoughts and ideas. This will take place at Rehoboth Baptist Church, located at 2997 Lawrenceville Highway in Tucker, starting at 8:30 a.m. It’s a chance for people to connect directly with law enforcement and be part of the conversation.
Over the next three years, the police and their federal partners will dig into the data, come up with strategies, and work on solutions tailored to the specific needs of DeKalb County. It’s all about making the area a safer place to live and work.
If you live in DeKalb County, this is your chance to have a say in shaping the future of your community. Mark your calendar for January 16 and stay tuned for updates as this important partnership unfolds.
