Reducing Gun Violence: Operation Ceasefire in Los Angeles

Based on Boston's successful program, Operation Ceasefire in Los Angeles focused on an area of the city experiencing high rates of gun violence and homicide. Researchers joined with Federal, State, and local authorities and community groups to design an intervention targeting gangs involved in the violence. The intervention used intensive law enforcement ("sticks") to deter gun crime and offered prevention services ("carrots"). They also "retailed" the message that all gang members would be held accountable if any one of them engaged in violence. Results were mixed, partly because events precipitated the intervention before the services component was ready. This NIJ Research Report describes the program and how, despite implementation problems, government agencies, community groups, and researchers can form lasting partnerships to address violent crime.