Governor Hochul Announces $39 Million Boost for Monroe County Law Enforcement
Governor Kathy Hochul announced nearly $39 million in state funding to strengthen law enforcement and community organizations in Monroe County. The funding includes an increase in resources for the New York State Police, with 25 additional troopers and investigators being deployed to Rochester to help fight gun violence and crime.
The $39 million investment is the largest state allocation for any eligible county. Of this, $24 million will go toward local law enforcement agencies to upgrade technology and equipment, aiming to improve crime-fighting abilities and data sharing.
"My top priority is the safety of all New Yorkers, and we are here in Rochester to ensure the community and law enforcement have the resources they need to keep people safe," Hochul said. "We've made progress reducing crime in Rochester, Monroe County, and statewide, but there's more to do."
The announcement, made at Rochester City Hall, was attended by Mayor Malik Evans, Police Chief David Smith, Monroe County Sheriff Todd Baxter, and State Police Superintendent Steven G. James. Governor Hochul’s plan sets a record for state funding to local law enforcement, providing them with the latest tools to prevent and solve crimes.
Monroe County hosts one of 11 state-funded Crime Analysis Centers, which processed over 21,000 service requests last year. The center helped law enforcement solve cases involving homicides, theft rings, and illegal firearms.
According to Hochul, the investments are already yielding results. From January 1 to September 1, 2024, shooting incidents in Rochester have decreased by 39 percent compared to the same period last year. Reported crime in the city dropped 38 percent, while car thefts fell by 58 percent during the first eight months of 2024.
Mayor Evans praised Hochul’s initiative, saying it underscores her administration’s dedication to enhancing public safety and supporting crime prevention efforts in local communities.
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