HOUSTON – Mayor Sylvester Turner and Houston police chief Art Acevedo discussed the police department’s annual March on Crime, also known as Lucha Contra El Crimen, at a press conference on Tuesday.
The press conference took place at the Houston Police Department headquarters, where Mayor Turner and Acevedo announced a new initiative to reduce violent crime and help keep Houstonians safe. They were joined by Houston city council members and the Houston police command and support staff.
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Posted by KPRC2 / Click2Houston on Tuesday, February 25, 2020
According to Turner, March on Crime became a citywide program in 1991.
“The program is built upon the premise that no one group can do it alone,” Turner said. “Everyone needs to take responsibility for helping to keep this great city safe.”
Turner declared March 2020 “March on Crime/Lucha Contra El Crimen” month. Police said the events that will take place in March will include forums and events that focus on crime prevention and awareness.
Acevedo said violent crime rates are starting to “creep up.” Mayor Turner said he wants to target key areas in the city and pledged $1.5 million to help lower crime rates within a six-month period. In addition, Turner said he asked Acevedo to prepare a proposal for technology enhancements to help with public safety.
“We are not going to let gangs and other violent criminals destroy our city,” Turner said.
Acevedo urged those who are able to donate money to help the police department with technology enhancements.