Governor Hochul Announces $39 Million in State Funding for Monroe County Law Enforcement
Governor Kathy Hochul today, September 9, unveiled nearly $39 million in state funding aimed at bolstering law enforcement and community-based organizations in Monroe County. The announcement includes a significant increase in resources for the New York State Police, who will deploy an additional 25 troopers and investigators to combat gun violence and crime in the City of Rochester.
The funding, the largest state investment in any county eligible for such support, also allocates $24 million to local law enforcement agencies for new technology and equipment. This investment is intended to enhance data and information sharing and improve crime-fighting capabilities.
"As I have said since day one, the safety of all New Yorkers is my top priority, and that is why we are here in Rochester to ensure this community and local law enforcement have the resources they need to keep the public safe," Hochul said. "While we have seen great progress in reducing crime overall in Rochester, Monroe County, and across the State, there is more to be done."
Hochul made the announcement at Rochester City Hall, joined by Rochester Mayor Malik Evans, Police Chief David Smith, Monroe County Sheriff Todd Baxter, State Police Superintendent Steven G. James, and members of the Rochester State Delegation. The governor's plan includes a record-level funding commitment to local law enforcement, aiming to provide the latest tools and equipment to prevent and solve crimes swiftly.
Monroe County hosts one of 11 Crime Analysis Centers funded by the state, which provided significant support last year. The Monroe Center managed over 21,000 service requests, aiding law enforcement in solving homicides, theft rings, and removing illegal firearms from the streets.
Hochul says the investments are already showing results. Shooting incidents with injuries in Rochester have dropped 39 percent from January 1 to September 1, 2024, compared to the same period last year. Reported crime in the city has decreased by 38 percent, and car thefts have fallen by 58 percent during the first eight months of 2024.
Rochester Mayor Malik Evans says Hochul’s initiative reflects her administration's ongoing commitment to enhancing public safety and supporting local communities in their crime prevention efforts.
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