The warmer weather often results in a spike in violent crime in Connecticut, and this summer is no exception. Now, the state says it will put some dollars behind efforts to curb violence in major cities.
"Yes, we've had a spike in New Haven," said New Haven's police Chief Otoniel Reyes at a Tuesday press conference, "a lot of it is related to group on group violence."
At that press conference, Governor Ned Lamont and law enforcement officials announced that the cities of New Haven, Bridgeport, and Hartford have all been given $25,000 to increase police patrols and personnel this summer.
In addition, Hartford and New Haven will be assigned a state police detective to help reduce violence.
Lamont says curbing gun violence in Connecticut's largest cities is more than just a public safety issue.
"I've also been a governor who said how important it is to continue to bring our cities back to life and make them thriving urban centers where families know that they can walk safely, and their kids can grow up and be safe," he said. "We're never going to have great cities unless we have great safe cities."
Lamont said the additional police presence is just a short term step. He said his administration will continue to collaborate with the police chiefs of Hartford, Bridgeport and New Haven and provide additional support as needed.
