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MEMPHIS, Tenn. — During a news conference on Monday, Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland announced several partnerships that he said should curb crime and violence in the Bluff City. He called  Officer Verdell Smith, who was tragically killed on Saturday when he was struck by a suspect’s car, a hero. Smith’s actions and the actions of other men and women that night helped save lives, he added. “We all need to be grateful to all the men and women in blue.” Man charged with downtown violence that left officer dead appears in court He said despite recent events and having fewer officers, our crime plan is working and making progress. Violent crime is flat lining, he said, but that unfortunately is being overshadowed by an unacceptable homicide rate.
  • Curernt Crime Plan Part 1
  • Current Crime Plan Part 2
To help tackle the homicide issue and crime in general, the mayor said he is finalizing a plan with the Tennessee Highway Patrol whose “aggressive traffic enforcement will impact crime.” The city is partnering with the Beale Street Merchants Association, the Downtown Memphis Commission and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office to add security to the entertainment district and  Beale Street. Mayor Strickland also announced starting on July 5, the city will be cracking down on domestic violence. All suspects accused of attempted murder and violence will be monitored with ankle bracelets. However, the mayor did go on to say that citizens need to step up as well. “We need your help, at home, in church, on the streets to teach young people to resolve conflicts without violence,” he said.