New York State Creates New Office of Gun Violence Prevention

The illegal gun trade seems to be fueling gun violence throughout New York State and a new department created by New York Governor Kathy Hochul aims to try and put a dent in the number of black-market weapons that are in New York.

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Governor Hochul made the announcement during a press conference while discussing the Interstate Taskforce on Illegal Guns meeting earlier this week. That meeting included representatives from various Federal Agencies and officials from the states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

During the meeting, the Governor discussed how the new Office of Gun Violence Prevention (OGVP) will take action to prevent and reduce gun violence throughout the state. The office will also work with partners in the community and law enforcement to figure out what steps need to be talked to stop gun crime.

The new department will be a part of the New York State Department of Health's Center for Community Health and will partner closely with the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services.

Governor Hochul also took the opportunity to introduce the new director of the Office of Gun Violence Prevention, Calliana Thomas.

Taking strong action against gun violence requires a multi-faceted approach... Calliana S. Thomas is a dedicated public servant who will be a critical asset to our efforts to fight this public health crisis, combat gun violence, and keep New Yorkers safe.
-Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York

Director Thomas is expected to get to work immediately.