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Worcester, Fitchburg and Gardner get state money to combat gang violence

Telegram & Gazette - 2/11/2019

Feb. 11--Worcester is line for $656,525 in state funds to bolster efforts to combat gang violence, while Fitchburg and Gardner will get $220,000 combined for their police departments.

More than $7.7 million in competitive Senator Charles E. Shannon Jr. Community Safety Initiative Grant Program funds were released to law enforcement agencies who target gang violence.

"The Shannon Initiative is a successful program that allows the Commonwealth to partner with local communities and make a serious impact to prevent youth violence and gang activity," Gov. Charlie Baker said in a news release.

The grants provide funds to communities that demonstrate high levels of youth violence and gang problems. Strategies include social intervention and opportunity provision programs, as well as gang task force personnel costs and overtime.

"Disrupting illegal activity makes these communities safer and helps young people redirect their lives in a positive direction," said Thomas Turco, secretary of public safety.

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