Pasadena’s Gang Violence Prevention Program Shows Sustained Efforts in 2024

The City of Pasadena’s gang outreach and violence interruption services maintained robust activity levels throughout the third and fourth quarters of 2024, with total service hours increasing compared to earlier periods, according to a comprehensive report by the Pasadena Public Health Department.

The report, to be presented in full at the Wednesday, March 19 meeting of the Pasadena Public Safety Committee, details how the program logged 1,953 hours of service in the fourth quarter, up from 1,887.5 hours in the third quarter and significantly higher than the 1,512 hours recorded in the first quarter.

The program’s approach encompasses five key strategies: street mediation and rumor control, high-level violence interruption and response, talking one-on-one with key players or influencers, drawing in respected third-parties, and collaboration with local nonprofit organizations, according to the report.

Data showed a notable shift in service distribution, with mediation activities accounting for approximately 24% of total hours in the fourth quarter, compared to just 11% in the first quarter. This represents a significant trend change, with mediation hours increasing from 160.5 in the first quarter to 469 hours in the fourth.

The balance between in-person and phone-based services remained relatively stable throughout the year, with in-person engagement consistently representing just over half of all activities. During both the third and fourth quarters, approximately 47% of services were conducted by phone and 53% in person.

Community shootings data presented in the report indicate a significant reduction in confirmed gang-related shootings. There were 6 shootings in 2024, down 81% from the 31 shootings in 2021.

The program made 636 referrals to community partners over the reporting period, with job training representing the largest category at 335 referrals. Housing assistance (92 referrals), substance use treatment (57), and mental health services (34) were also significant areas of support.

There was a notable decline in referrals from the first quarter of 2024 (151 referrals) to the fourth quarter (44 referrals), showing a changing pattern in community support services throughout the year.

Data collection methods included confidential journals documenting activities, with team members submitting documentation summarizing their entries. Public Health Department staff regularly reviewed these data sheets with the team.

The Public Safety Committee meeting is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. on March 19, 2025, at the City Council Chamber at City Hall, and will be accessible both in-person and virtually.