U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson Convenes Summit With Federal, State, And Local Law Enforcement On Public Safety In Mecklenburg County

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Today, U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson convened a summit focused on public safety and reducing violent crime in Mecklenburg County, bringing together leaders and representatives from federal and state law enforcement agencies, local police departments, prosecutors, and other stakeholders across the county.

"Violent crime in Mecklenburg County is getting more serious by the day, and we must do something to stop it," said U.S. Attorney Ferguson. "No one should go to sleep at night worried bullets are going to come through their window. But solving the problem is going to take all of us, and that is the point of this summit: to work together to keep our citizens safe."

Participants discussed law enforcement initiatives, including past successes and future plans, and how to better coordinate to reduce violent crime. The group discussed all facets that play a role in reducing crime, including bond in state court cases, recidivism, juvenile crime, and crime prevention.

The summit also focused on safety on public transportation-the veins and arteries of our community.

And leaders at the summit addressed root causes of crime, such as the mental health crisis in our community that plays a long-term role in a large number of violent crime cases.

Federal representatives reiterated their commitment to local crime reduction efforts and explored ways the federal government can support partnerships to enhance public safety.

"The public is safest when we work together," Ferguson said. "By sharing ideas and coordinating our efforts, we can better respond to crime and address its root causes and collateral effects, such as mental health issues."