MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The US Attorney assigned to West Tennessee details his plans to reduce violent crime in the state. The event was held at Pursuit of God church in Frayser. He was joined by community leaders from
The summit comes as the city has seen 253 homicides so far this year, with police calling 221 of those murder.
Joseph C. Murphy, acting US Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, joined Memphis Police Chief CJ Davis, Rev. Ricky Floyd, Deputy Police Chief Paul Wright, and Charlie Caswell, Executive Director from the Legacy of Legends Community Development Corporation for the announcement.
“What you see here today is a collaboration of people who decided to cross lines, cross cultures and create a change in our community that will make Memphis a better place to live,” said Pastor Ricky Floyd from Pursuit of God Transformation Center.
The group gathered at his church Thursday.
“This whole concept came about with us just sitting down and listening, the department, clergy and the community,” Wright said.
The concept is called a “Better Community Summit.” Next month families can come to The Pursuit of God Church off North Watkins to get connected to resources.
Resources like helping parents talk to their children about gangs, domestic violence prevention, community conflict resolution among a variety of things.
“Even though I’m a prosecutor by profession, 33 years almost, I’m convinced that community involvement is an important element in reducing violent crime,” Murphy said.
For now, this summit is in the Frayser, Raleigh communities but they plan for more in the future, tailored to other neighborhood needs.
If you would like to attend it will be Saturday, November 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Pursuit of God Transformation Center. That’s at 3759 North Watkins Street.
