JSO planning new anti-gang initiative

Another step in fighting back against rising gang crime in Jacksonville.

Just about one year ago, there was a spike in gun crime in the Northwest part of town and, as a result, "Operation Ceasefire" was launched. That included moving patrols from low-crime to high-crime areas and making a concentrated push on door-knocking to speak with the community and encourage tips. When JSO felt they had gained a handle on the violence, they wound down the Operation, calling it a success.

Now, we're facing a rising problem with gang violence in a similar part of town as last year's gun crime spike. JSO confirms they are reinstating "Operation Ceasefire" in response. We told you Friday that patrols would again be moving from the low-crime to high-crime areas to specifically target any crime committed by a known gang member. JSO now confirms they will start knock and talks again Wednesday as well.

A statement from the Sheriff’s Office says Sheriff John Rutherford does not support changing the curfew law, as some groups of faith leaders have called to do among this violence. He says it would not impact gang violence, although his discussions with community stakeholders continue.

We’re told JSO is working on a new initiative to address gang violence, and that will be unveiled next week.

Late Tuesday, the Mayor’s Office said faith, non-profit, and community leaders would be coming together with City leadership to “address prevention and intervention efforts” and to speak on a “proposed new initiative”. That announcement will be Wednesday morning. The Mayor’s Office declined to provide more information as this time.

WOKV will continue to dig for information on how JSO is keeping you safe. We will be hosting a forum with both candidates for Jacksonville Sheriff and will ask them about how to fight the rise in gang crime. Tune in Wednesday morning to Jacksonville’s Morning News at 8AM on 104.5FM.