"The database that Peterson and Densley are freely sharing — and the training they offer — can help prevent gun violence and save lives. The initiative merits widespread support." Read the Star Tribune's full editorial on our research here. … [Read more...]
Gathering useful data on mass shootings in America
America can’t just arrest its way out of a mass shooting epidemic, experts say
The weeks after gunmen in El Paso, Texas and Dayton, Ohio have been filled with accusations of people who allegedly threatened deadly shooting sprees. Over 20 people have been arrested since August 4th, both teenagers to adults. The Violence Project's Jillian Peterson commented on how these arrests can be both good and bad: "I think it's the … [Read more...]
School safety: Fund more counselors for students’ emotional health
While there’s a renewed push to boost spending on school safety through more locks and tighter security to fortify schools, a new study of school shootings suggests that will not be enough to prevent future school shootings. An in-depth study of 45 school shootings since the Columbine High School shooting of 20 years ago shows all the shooters … [Read more...]
Daily Digest: School Safety and Guns
Good morning and happy Thursday. Here's the Digest. 1. Researchers say a fresh approach to school safety is needed. Lockdown drills top the list of security measures Jillian Peterson believes schools need to drop. Peterson, a Hamline University criminology professor, thinks training the adults in school on lockdown procedures, de-escalation and … [Read more...]
Police crisis intervention training: We need a new paradigm, not a new building
Two proposed multimillion-dollar law enforcement training centers are competing for funding at the Legislature. One of these facilities, the $13.2 million Dakota County Safety and Mental Health Alternative Response Training (SMART) Center, would be dedicated to crisis intervention training. We applaud any and all efforts to properly fund law … [Read more...]