Federal and local law enforcement agencies launched a new initiative called “Operation Safe Cities” aimed at reducing violent crime.
Gun violence has been shooting up over the past four years, according to U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada. KNX News’ Jon Baird reported that the goal is to get the most violent criminals off the streets and prosecuting these extra cases at the federal level.
“With Operation Safe Cities, we’re aiming our powerful federal resources and federal sentencing statutes directly against violent gun criminals,” Estrada said.
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Officials said that across greater Los Angeles, the most violent and horrific crimes are committed by a relatively small number of particularly violent criminals.
“It’s not right that people feel unsafe going to stores. It’s not right that people feel unsafe going to buy food. It's not right that people feel unsafe just walking down the street,” Estrada said.
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