In Brief:
Violence Disruptor Programs
An overview for public safety professionals
Mindy Duong, Statistical Analyst, Office of Research & Statistic (July 2024)
PDF Version- In Brief: Violence Disruptor Programs
See also, PDF Version- In Detail: Violence Disruptor Programs
Colorado is dedicated to the reduction and prevention of criminal activity through a variety of violence disruptor programs, crime prevention initiatives, and community partnerships. The total number of violent crimes decreased by 9% from 2022 (N = 32,425) to 2023 (N = 29,654), which is the first decrease in the past five years (CBI, March 2024; see Table 1) [Note: CBI date was retrieved March 2024. With monthly updates, CBI data is dynamic and current figures may vary from those displayed in Table 1].
| Year | Total Number (N) of Violent Crimes | Percent (%) Change from Previous Year |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 25,249 | - |
| 2020 | 27,776 | +10% |
| 2021 | 31,185 | +12% |
| 2022 | 32,424 | +4% |
| 2023 | 29,654 | -9% |
To foster collaboration between law enforcement and non-profit organizations, 56 entities received $14.4M through the SB22-145 Multidisciplinary Crime Prevention and Crisis Intervention Grant Program in 2023. Of the 56, 22 (39%) self-identified as violence intervention programs, 29 (52%) as early intervention teams, and 30 (54%) as primary and secondary violence prevention programs. In 2023, 2,289 new interventions and strategies were implemented by the violence intervention programs, 827 individuals were trained by the early intervention teams, and 104,826 service hours were provided by the primary and secondary violence prevention programs. For more information about this and other Colorado-based crime prevention programs, visit the Crime Prevention Grant Programs website.
In addition to crime prevention programs in Colorado, there are also community violence intervention programs that “focus on those who are at the highest risk of becoming victims of or engaging in violence” intending to reduce “firearm injuries and deaths by addressing the root causes of violence and engaging with affected individuals and communities” (CDPHE, n.d.; see Table 2). Violence disruption is a long-term collaborative effort between law enforcement and the community built upon mutual trust and understanding, open communication, and willingness to explore new ideas and strategies. Colorado continues to prioritize these and other evidence-based approaches to address criminal activities and improve outcomes for communities across the state.
| Environment | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | Address biological or psychological factors, behavior or personal experience | In-home visits to teach parenting skills; social and emotional learning; cognitive behavior therapy |
| Relationship (peer family) | Target interactions between two or more closely-associated people | Peer program promoting positive dating norms among friends; adults mentoring youth |
| Community | Address issues with the health, safety, and stability of whole communities | Physical improvements to neighborhoods; business improvement districts; reducing crime/fear of crime |
| Societal | Examine broad patterns in thinking and acting that produce a specific social dynamic | Awareness campaigns around intimate partner violence; bystander intervention education; legislation/public policies supporting family-leave |
Source: Illinois CJ Information Authority
Additional Information & Resources
- CBI, March 2024: Colorado Crime Statistics - Violent Crime 2023
- CDPHE, no date: Colorado Dept. of Public Health and Environment - Community Violence Intervention Strategies
- Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA): Community-Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative
- City of Denver: Youth Violence Prevention Action Table EOY Strategic Planning Session (2021) (pdf)
- US DOJ, Community Oriented Policing Services: Community Violence Intervention (training videos)
- US DOJ, Office of the Deputy Attorney General: Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime (2021) (pdf)