June 20, 2024 - Media, PA
Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer, legislators, local elected officials, law enforcement officials, and community groups highlighted how the Shapiro-Davis Administration's gun violence-related 2024-25 proposed budget investments are critical to addressing gun violence holistically. The Governor's budget would continue the Shapiro-Davis Administration's work to create safer communities through increased investments in several Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) programs - including those that have made an impact in Delaware County, resulting in a 29 percent reduction in homicides and an increase in the removal of illegal firearms."To combat the epidemic of gun violence, we need to take a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes, invests in community-based organizations working to prevent violence, and supports law enforcement agencies in keeping our communities safe," said Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, PCCD chair. "In Pennsylvania, there was a 17% decrease in homicides statewide in 2023 compared to the prior year. While this is a sign of progress, this progress cannot be looked at as an end point. Instead, it is a foundation to build upon. The Shapiro-Davis budget is an important step in keeping that positive momentum going. Delaware County embodies the spirit of our proposed budget investments, by bringing together law enforcement agencies and community partners to help address gun violence in a comprehensive way."Speakers Include:DA Jack StollsteimerLt. Gov. Austin DavisSen. Tim KearneyRep. Jen O'MaraDelaware County Council President Dr. Monica TaylorWilliam Bair, Chief of Police Chiefs of Delaware County/SE PACory Long, Making A Change Group