Caleb Perkins presents $1.6M gun violence reduction initiative to Clark County leaders

The Springfield City Commission meeting on February 25, 2025, focused on a significant presentation regarding a new gun violence reduction program led by Caleb Perkins, the violence intervention coordinator at the Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) of Clark County. The initiative aims to address the rising levels of gun violence in the community, particularly among youth.

Perkins outlined the origins of the program, which emerged from a coalition of local stakeholders, including the Clark County Juvenile Court, Springfield Police Division, and Springfield City Schools. This group recognized the urgent need to tackle gun-related offenses and successfully secured $1.6 million in federal funding from the Department of Justice's Community Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative (CVIPI). The funding will support community research, planning, and the implementation of strategies to reduce gun violence.

The program emphasizes a community-driven approach, empowering local residents to identify and address the root causes of violence. Perkins highlighted the importance of collaboration among various organizations and the need for community involvement to create sustainable solutions. He also shared data indicating that firearm offenders aged 14 to 24 represented a significant portion of arrests, underscoring the need for targeted interventions in specific areas of Springfield.

The commission expressed support for the initiative, with members encouraging community engagement and collaboration with existing organizations that work with youth. Perkins invited interested citizens to reach out to him directly to explore opportunities for involvement.

As the initiative moves forward, it aims to provide positive role models, safe gathering spaces, and constructive activities for at-risk youth, ultimately striving to foster a safer community for all residents. The commission acknowledged the multifaceted nature of the issue and the necessity of a collective effort to make a meaningful impact on gun violence in Springfield.