The program focuses on chronic violent offenders. It consists of a coordinated crime control effort that includes most of the law enforcement agencies in San Joaquin County. Using a significant gang outreach component, law enforcement agencies pool information and enforcement capacity and deliver a clear and specific message to youth-oriented gangs about refraining from violent behavior. Efforts are focused on a small group of chronic, serious and violent youth offenders, who account for the majority of youth violence in the county. The program is a joint effort of the county and the majority of its cities, state and federal law enforcement agencies, local gang prevention programs and social service agencies.
Program results Results of the effort have been positive.
A review of crime data from 1997 through 1999 indicated a sustained 50 percent drop in gang-related youth homicide, with a particularly dramatic drop for juveniles. The rates of aggravated assault among youth have also dropped, although more gradually. The number of guns recovered in crimes continued to drop significantly each year, as did the number of arrests for carrying a concealed weapon. Activities have been conducted in the cities of Stockton, Tracy and Lodi, and in unincorporated county areas. Recently, the City of Manteca Police Department started Peacekeeper operations, and the youth outreach component is jointly funded by the cities of Lodi, Manteca, Stockton and Tracy, plus the county.