Central Nova News

The Alexandria Police Department (APD) has received a $250,000 grant from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) to combat gun violence. This funding aims to address the significant increase in firearm-related offenses in Alexandria, which doubled between 2021 and 2022.

The grant is part of a broader initiative by DCJS to tackle rising gun violence trends seen both nationally and statewide. The Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney also secured a $497,000 grant from DCJS for prosecuting gun-related crimes. Both departments will collaborate on initiatives targeting affected community areas.

A Program Coordinator will be contracted by APD to lead an interagency Work Group and act as a liaison with the community, particularly focusing on Beat 34 in southwest Alexandria around Edsall Road. This area experienced a 67% rise in violent and property crime and a 179% increase in lesser crimes from 2022 to 2023. The coordinator's role includes building partnerships within this community to prevent cycles of violence.

The establishment of the Beat 34 Work Group will enhance collaboration among various city departments including APD, the Sheriff’s Office, City Manager’s Office, Department of Community and Human Services, Code Administration, Office of Housing, and Alexandria Public Schools. By unifying efforts, resources can be effectively deployed where needed most to reduce gun violence.

DCJS has allocated $2.5 million statewide through its Firearm Violence Intervention and Prevention Grant Program under Operation Bold Blue Line. Localities could apply for up to $250,000 without requiring matching funds. All awarded funds must be utilized by December 31, 2025.

Despite no single solution existing for gun violence issues, Alexandria remains committed to addressing them through prevention measures and collaborative prosecution efforts involving APD, the Commonwealth’s Attorney's office, and other city partners.

For further information or language assistance services provided free of charge by contacting LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or calling 703-746-3960.

Contact: Tracy Walker, APD Communications Manager at tracy.walker@alexandriava.gov