Jacksonville Launches Journey Forward Initiative to Tackle Rising Crime Rates

Jacksonville Initiates Journey Forward to Combat Crime

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Months after its launch, the Journey Forward crime-fighting initiative is beginning to take shape in Jacksonville. Originally known as The Jacksonville Journey, the program was first introduced in 2008 by former Mayor John Peyton. Under the leadership of current Mayor Donna Deegan, the initiative seeks to harness community resources to reduce crime rates across the city.

The formation of this initiative was spurred by the tragic 2006 murder of eight-year-old DreShawna Davis, who lost her life in a drive-by shooting while trying to protect her cousins. This event highlighted the urgent need for a structured response to violence in the community.

According to Charles Griggs, the city’s director of community initiatives and a long-time member of the oversight committee for the original Jacksonville Journey, the program contributed to a nearly 40% reduction in violent crime during its first four years. Griggs expressed optimism about the current program’s potential to replicate these positive outcomes.

Goals and Focus of the Initiative

In a recent conversation with members of the community, Dr. Tammy Hodo, one of the newly appointed board members, shared her vision for the initiative. Dr. Hodo, who has a robust background in criminal justice and urban studies, expressed enthusiasm for reinstating this program. She has previous experience as a youth probation officer and was instrumental in creating the Safer Together report, which examined various facets of community policing.

Stressing the importance of community involvement, Hodo stated, “I’m really excited that they’re bringing this program back. I’m hopeful that I will be able to provide insight.” She aims to focus on solutions for at-risk youth, particularly during the critical hours between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., when many children are unsupervised and crime rates tend to increase.

“We have to look at a holistic perspective and engage parents in the process as well,” she added, indicating that effective crime prevention requires a cooperative effort involving families and community members.

Composition of the Board

The oversight board for Journey Forward consists of 11 members, each bringing expertise from various fields including public health, education, workforce development, juvenile diversion programs, and community engagement. The recent discussions held by the city council centered around the initial eight board member appointments. Four members were appointed by Mayor Deegan and must be confirmed by the city council. Additional appointments come from the Council President and other local authorities, including the sheriff’s office and the Duval County school district.

The first reading of board member appointments occurred on a recent Tuesday evening, with a second reading set for December. The final vote for approval is scheduled to take place in January.

Collaboration as a Key Strategy

Reflecting on the successes of the earlier Jacksonville Journey, Dr. Hodo noted that increased collaboration between law enforcement and the community could pave the way for positive change. “If we increase the engagement, positive engagement, with law enforcement and provide opportunities for employment, mentorship, and those types of activities, I believe that we could actually make a difference,” she stated.

As Jacksonville embarks on this renewed effort to enhance community safety, many residents remain hopeful about the impact of the Journey Forward initiative. Leaders and activists are working together to create a more secure environment for everyone, particularly the youth, in this vibrant city.