Small Town Takes Control Over Big City Gun Violence

San Pablo, California was facing a big city problem in 2011—out of control gun violence. Bordering the urban cities of Oakland and Richmond, it had the unwelcome distinction as one of the highest per-capita areas for gun violence in the state.

Gunfire had become so commonplace it was almost accepted as normal—with many community members so disengaged they did not call gunfire into 9-1-1. Law enforcement could not respond if gunshots were not reported, or were lacking detailed information in order to respond quickly and at the correct location.

The San Pablo Police Department set out to address the issue by changing strategies and committing to crime reduction through community policing, progressive training and technology.