By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – Area police agencies will work in a more coordinated manner to combat a rising tide of violent crime in the City of Buffalo.
Since June 1st, there have been more than 80 shootings in the city. For the year, the number of homicides has reached 33.
In response, federal agencies such as the FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration, plus the State Police and Erie County Sheriff's Department will work with Buffalo police. County Sheriff Patrick Gallivan said increasing police visibility is key, and that some of his deputies will be assigned to the city.
"It will include patrols. It will include our helicopter and some investigative help," Gallivan said. "We will pool all the various and intelligence units, including the FBI's Career Criminal Task Force.
"Really, we're trying to bring together the law enforcement resources already in place into a more organized effort."
Ironically, the attention on violent crime comes as neighborhoods throughout the city and suburbs observe National Night Out Tuesday night. Residents will gather for a variety of activities designed to send a message that crime will not be tolerated on their streets.
Among the activities is a memorial service at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park for the young victims of drug and gun violence.