LOS ANGELES – Mayor Karen Bass announced today that violence has significantly decreased in targeted Gang Reduction and Youth Development zones across Los Angeles in 2024 due to the work of community violence interventionists. Mayor Bass recognized the partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Community Safety, Urban Peace Institute (UPI), the Los Angeles Violence Intervention Coalition (LAVIC) and the Los Angeles City Council, which has played an essential role in halting cycles of violence in L.A.
“The reduction in citywide violence is a testament to the dedication of our community violence interventionalists, law enforcement, and community members and leaders working together to create a safer city,” said Mayor Karen Bass. “This is dangerous work – and to everyone who does it day in and day out, we thank you.”
Recent data from the Los Angeles Police Department shows the tangible impact of these efforts:
A 45% decrease in gang-related homicides in GRYD zones compared to 2023. GRYD zones have seen a 56% decrease in gang-related homicides compared to 2022.
A 48% drop in the number of victims shot in gang-related conflicts.
Los Angeles City Council President member Marqueece Harris-Dawson underscored the importance of continued investment in community safety: "This is proof that when we make deep, intentional investments in community safety, we can create safer neighborhoods," Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson said. "We must ensure the continued funding of community violence intervention across Los Angeles because we have the power to prevent harm before it occurs, – rather than waiting to punish it once it’s already happened."
Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez also emphasized the critical role of community-driven solutions to public safety saying, "This progress shows that when we invest in our communities, not just in law enforcement, we foster true safety and healing," Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez said. "The work of community peacemakers goes beyond responding to violence – it prevents harm, transforms lives, and rebuilds trust. As we continue to address violence, we must ensure that these community-led programs have the resources they need to thrive."
"UPI invests in and advocates for frontline CVI practitioners because they are trusted voices communities need to disrupt not just individual acts of violence, but more broadly, the cycles of violence that have impacted communities for far too long," said Fernando Rejón, Executive Director of UPI. "Through proactive outreach, crisis response, and case management, their work fosters hope and healing. We must continue to invest in these proven professionals to ensure an even safer city for all."
Los Angeles is taking a new comprehensive approach to safety and is delivering results:
Reducing Crime with the Office of Community Safety: The Mayor established the Mayor’s Office of Community Safety to prevent crime through community-led approaches to increase safety and wellbeing. In 2024, the Office served thousands of Gang Reduction and Youth Development participants through prevention and intervention.
Creating Safe Community Spaces: Last summer, the Mayor’s Office of Community Safety coordinated the Summer Night Lights program through partnerships with City departments, Council District Offices and community-based organizations to employ 500 youth and young adults to provide recreation activities, art and cultural programming. GRYD agencies brokered dozens of Non-Aggression Agreements to ensure safety at SNL sites and in the community. In 2024, SNL had more than 100,000 participants.