Chester sees historic drop in gun violence with zero homicides this summer

In recent years, Chester, Pennsylvania, has transformed from a city known for high violence rates to one that has made significant strides in decreasing crime. Collaborative efforts among local, county, and state leaders have resulted in innovative strategies aimed at combating gun violence, particularly during the challenging summer months. Since 2020, under Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer's leadership and with the support of Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro, a multifaceted approach has been implemented to reduce gun-related incidents. This initiative has led to a remarkable 65% decrease in gun shootings over the past five years. The cooperative model has involved various stakeholders, including law enforcement and community organizations, which helped maintain safety and provided resources for children and families. Funded by substantial grants totaling $2.6 million, the initiative focuses on community-building activities like block parties and engagement programs that steer youth away from violence. The summer of 2023 marked a significant achievement for Chester, as officials reported zero gun homicides, a drastic improvement compared to previous years, and described this period as the safest stretch for the city in decades. While celebrations are taking place, community and state leaders recognize the importance of sustaining this momentum and are committed to ensuring continued economic growth and opportunities in Chester as part of the long-term strategy to combat violence.