For example, in response to the relation between homicide and alcohol use, the mayor restricted the hours during which alcoholic beverages could be sold. Similarly, the high proportion of homicides committed with guns prompted institution of prohibitions on carrying guns in public during high-risk weekends, holidays, and election days. In addition, the city initiated efforts to educate members of the community through the news media, schools, and families about resolving conflicts without violence. Other actions include improving the quality of the relationship between the police and the community, the modernization of the judicial system, and the promotion and protection of human rights. The homicide surveillance data are being used to evaluate the impact of these policies and programs on homicide rates.
Violence is a problem that affects urban areas throughout the Americas.
The Pan American Health Organization with assistance from CDC and other organizations is working to promote the application of public health surveillance, analysis, and evaluation methods to assist countries in this region in reducing the problem. Cities and violence in Latin America. Urban management series, vol 2. US Department of Justice. Crime in the United States, 1991.