2 days ago
PA bill would create grant program to help police solve violent crimes
PENNSYLVANIA (WTAJ) — A Pennsylvania senator is hoping to introduce legislation that would help provide law enforcement with tools to help solve serious crimes like homicide.
Senator Joe Picozzi (R-Philadelphia County) argues that in Pennsylvania, over a quarter of homicides go unsolved, and only over one-third of crimes like robbery and burglary are solved. In a memo to lawmakers, he claims these problems can be attributed to a shortage of police personnel and the lack of investment in technology and tools that law enforcement needs.
That's why he plans to introduce the Violent Incident Clearance and Technological Investigative Methods (VICTIM) Act. The proposed legislation would create a grant program through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency. Police agencies could then apply for grants that would be used to help solve those violent crimes.
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Law enforcement could use the grants for the following:
Hire and retain officers
Upgrade technology
Ensure compliance with reporting requirements
Picozzi said that the legislation is 'critical' and will provide the following results:
Better public safety, because higher clearance rates lead to the apprehension and incapacitation of violent criminals.
Less crime, because solving homicides and other violent crimes sends a clear message that perpetrators will be held accountable.
Community trust in law enforcement, because improved clearance rates demonstrate the effectiveness of police in solving crimes and maintaining public safety.
More justice for victims and families because solving homicides and other violent crimes provides closure and justice, helping victims and families heal.
'This bill supports our law enforcement by increasing the tools available to them to solve more violent crime, and by solving more violent crimes, we also build trust in our justice system. Ultimately, we make neighborhoods…safer places to live and raise our families,' Picozzi added.
You can read more about the proposed Victims' Act here.
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