We all want to feel safe in our neighborhoods, and the governor thinks expanding “Operation Impact” will help. It was launched in Syracuse last summer, and the crime fighting strategy floods areas plagued by gangs, shootings and major crimes, with cops.
Local law enforcers say it's working, and has reduced violent crime in the city.
Recent statistics have impressed the state, and it's one of the reasons why Syracuse will be used as a model as they look to expand the program to other cities. From August to December, “Operation Impact” seized a dozen guns, and handed out more than two-thousand traffic tickets. 82 parking tickets. There were more than 300 arrests, on over 700 charges including 72 felonies. They've seized guns, drugs and money: over 13-thousand dollars since August.
But what is it about this program that's worked where others have failed?
Donna Spinner used to be so afraid of what was happening outside her home, she moved her rocking chair away from her window. She feared for her life.
“At night, they would be shooting at you, cars would be running into you, it was really bad, now, it's a lot better.”
Not perfect, but better. There have been fewer fights and gunshots.
And neighbors believe state police, city police, sheriff's deputies teaming up, to stop cars, and ask questions have made a difference. The stops have turned up information, drugs and guns.
“Those traffic details have really sent the message out, that you really shouldn't be carrying a gun, in a car, because if you get stopped, you're going to get busted.”
Others in the high crime neighborhoods that have been targeted tell us, the word's out, and it seems to be spreading to the people who've been the source of trouble.
“People know that they're there, and it's deterring activity going on, because if you do the crime, you'll do the time.”
Now that it's met with some success, where does “Operation Impact” go from here?
“Not only does it not get scaled back, we plan on expanding it, and improving it.”
Donna Spinner likes that idea. “That's a real good idea, I'd love it if they would live right next door to me.”
And Donna has moved her rocking chair, back in front of her window. “Operation Impact’s” executive committee meets soon, and Rick Trunfio tells us they will be getting a great deal of input from cops who've worked the many details like traffic, buy-busts, and vice, as they look to improve and expand “Operation Impact” in Syracuse.
