Attorney General Bill McCollum News Release
June 20, 2008
Media Contact: Jenn Meale
Phone: (850) 245-0150
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Attorney General McCollum Launches 23rd National Crime Prevention Conference

~ Annual conference provides strategies, tools to prevent crime in local communities ~


TALLAHASSEE, FL - Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum today addressed the attendees of the 23rd Annual Conference on Preventing Crime in the Black Community at the conference’s opening session in Tampa. The conference, established by the Florida Attorney General’s Office in 1985 and co-hosted with the Georgia Attorney General Thurbert Baker’s Office, is a cooperative effort to encourage communication and action within local communities by showcasing innovative ideas and successful prevention strategies that focus on crime issues in African-American neighborhoods.

“One of the most effective weapons against crime in our communities is the community itself,” said Attorney General McCollum. “When neighbors unite against criminals and work with our law enforcement agencies to fight back, the criminals don’t stand a chance, and I’m proud to showcase so many successful efforts at this year’s conference.”

In its 23rd year, the National Conference on Preventing Crime in the Black Community attracts law enforcement officers from throughout Florida and the country. Other invitees include county commissioners, mayors, victim advocates, community members, church groups and more than 500 teenagers. Participants from over 25 states and the District of Columbia, as well as representatives from several nations, will come together to address the concerns of crime in minority communities. The 2007 conference attracted over 2,500 participants.

"This conference exists to offer support for those who want our communities to foster inspiration and nurture achievement, rather than serve as a haven for crime and anguish," said Attorney General Baker. "I believe that this year's conference is yet another step forward in our effort to reduce crime rates in communities that see crime statistics far higher than should be expected or tolerated."

Attorney General McCollum delivered the key note address at the conference’s opening session this morning. Remarks were also made by Secretary Walter A. McNeil of the Florida Department of Corrections, Secretary Robert A. Butterworth of the Florida Department of Children and Families and a representative from the Florida Department of Education.

The conference was designed to address issues relating to the disproportionate number of African-Americans who are under the supervision of the criminal justice system. The agenda is designed to showcase successful programs and promote a positive exchange of ideas on the subject. Workshops will feature dynamic topics such as “Innovative Ways to Fight Crime in the Black Community,” “Gangs: Identification, Intervention and Transition of Former Members,” and “Reentry and Our Communities,” as well as Florida's restoration of civil rights initiatives, human trafficking and conflict resolution. In addition to the adult sessions and workshops, a full schedule of workshops has been specifically designed for teens and their chaperones. Teens and adults will be able to participate in an open discussion and share their experiences and insight on factors that contribute to crime and violence.

Included in this year’s program will be the annual report from the Council on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys, which was created in 2006 by the Florida Legislature and was made permanent with the Governor’s signing of legislation passed this spring. Housed in the Office of the Attorney General, the Council studies socio-economic conditions affecting black men and boys, including income, employment and education, and makes recommendations to address identified areas of concern. The recently-signed legislation will also allow the Council to develop strategic programs and funding initiatives to improve education and mentoring opportunities for Black youth.

This year’s conference is being held in Tampa at the Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina and the Westin Tampa Harbour Island Hotel. Additional information, including a full schedule of events, is available online at http://www.preventblackcrime.com.

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