From coast to coast, law enforcement has been seeing an increase in violent crime on our streets – and it is becoming a dangerous trend. While Broward has not traveled as far down the road as other communities, I am concerned we may be heading in that direction. Instead of waiting to see what happens, we are taking action to prevent the trend now.
I am proud of the men and women of the Broward Sheriff's Office – they are among the most dedicated and hardest working public servants you will find. But their jobs are getting more difficult as the level of street violence escalates.
In recent clashes, both suspects and victims are often individuals in their late teens and early 20's. Frequently, the disputes that lead to gunfire are not life or death issues. They are more often disagreements over money, drugs, territory or relationships. Arguments that previously would have sparked a fistfight or even a knife fight are now ending in gunfire. High-powered assault weapons are replacing handguns. Retaliation and retribution are replacing restraint.
Last month, I had the privilege of meeting with residents from across the county to discuss this growing problem during a series of town hall meetings. While each community raised issues unique to its own neighborhoods, there was one overwhelming point that crossed geographical lines: stopping the violence will take more than deputy sheriffs and police officers. It takes a caring public made up of people willing to take a stand and get involved. Too often the only future our children see is through gang affiliation. The most readily-available jobs involve dealing drugs. These children quickly grow to become the teens and young adults caught up in this growing web of violence – and the criminal justice system. We need to show these children that there are better, safer choices to be made. Parents, grandparents and mentors need to get involved and stay involved their lives. But involvement doesn't end at the family doorstep.
I urge you to help take control of our streets. If your area has a neighborhood watch group, I ask that you join it. If there is no neighborhood watch, start one – or simply take time to watch out for your neighbors and call law enforcement when you see something suspicious. If you can help stop or solve a crime, don't be afraid to come forward. I know there are situations when staying in the shadows seems like the safer choice. But coming forward is the only way to truly make your neighborhood a safer place.
I was encouraged to see so many good, decent and concerned residents take time out to meet with me, other area police chiefs and many local officials at our recent town hall meetings. This important partnership between residents, churches, schools and law enforcement is crucial to preventing the trend of violence – and it is vital to keeping all of our children safe.
To direct your comments and questions to Sheriff Ken Jenne, click here .