Treyger, Savino, Harris: Investing in Youth Vital to Prevent Gun Violence

The incidents of gun violence in Coney Island yesterday were a disturbing reminder of how systemic underfunding in communities such as this one leads to cyclical violent outbursts and criminal activity,” said Council Member Mark Treyger. “There is no doubt that the NYPD needs to deploy additional narcotics and anti-gang patrols to keep our residents safe, and that, once caught, the perpetrators of these crimes must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law by the District Attorney’s office.

“However, we cannot simply arrest our way out of these issues. The most effective way to prevent further gun violence is to provide residents in Coney Island with more education and employment opportunities. Degrees and jobs are the best preventative measures. We need to create more opportunities for our youth to receive quality educations, which in turn, will lead to them being able to better compete in the job market.

“We must increase funding for the Summer Youth Employment Program to the greatest extent possible. Let’s lay the groundwork for universal youth employment, so that our young people can learn valuable job skills and explore different possibilities for their lives, rather than engaging in behavior that is destructive and harmful not only to themselves, but to our communities.”

“Nothing upsets me more than to hear about not only one but two shootings within my district over the weekend,” said Senator Diane J. Savino. “While I’m thankful there were no lives lost, I’m disheartened to have to address issues like this. There’s a huge problem when people living in Coney Island have to walk the streets in fear because of another’s disregard for human life; it’s not right and something must be done, especially with the start of the summer season because we know hotter days mean more people outside enjoying the weather. We as elected officials must ensure that individuals living in our districts have the necessary resources and education to prevent unfortunate incidents like this from happening within their communities.”

“Just yesterday, a number of young people were critically injured in a tragic series of gun-related incidents, and unfortunately, Coney Island communities were reminded of just what can happen when our children – our most precious gifts – are systemically ignored and their schools underfunded,” said Assemblymember Pamela Harris.

“As a former correction officer, I’ve seen firsthand how poverty can drive our youth to desperation and senseless acts of violence, and I believe one of the most effective ways we can keep our kids on the straight and narrow and ensure our communities stay safe is to create more opportunities – opportunities for learning, opportunities for growth and opportunities for jobs that pay the bills and promote responsible citizenship.

“As the NYPD steps in to bring those involved in yesterday’s crimes to justice and prevent further violence, I remain committed to investing in our children and the future of our communities. Together, we can reduce gun violence and keep our streets safe.”