Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne is forming an Office of Violence Prevention amid rising gun violence in the community, the leader announced in a news conference on Thursday.
Ronayne said crime historically increases when warmer weather arrives and more people spend time outside. The new office will address the root causes of violence.
"The office will bring community leaders, public health experts, youth advocates and safety partners together with one purpose 鈥� to stop violence before it starts in our community,鈥� he said.
Ronayne also said he's looking for someone who will 鈥渦nderstand that real safety comes from not just enforcement but from opportunity and connection" to lead the office.
Since the pandemic, violent crime has increased in cities across the nation, including in Cleveland. In 2022, Cuyahoga County had the highest rate of gun violence related homicides in the state, more than double Ohio's average.
Cuyahoga County Councilmember Michael Houser said the statistics are alarming.
鈥淟ast year alone, our medical examiner鈥� reported 272 violent deaths involving firearms in our county,鈥� he said. 鈥淏ehind every number, there is a name, there is a story.鈥�
East Cleveland Mayor Sandra Morgan said she and other communities in the county are working to give kids opportunities this summer to stay busy and safe, including at the newly-renovated Martin Luther King Jr. Civic Center, which reopened earlier this month.
鈥淭his is a place I think will also be a refuge and a blessing to intergenerational activities here,鈥� she said. 鈥淪tudents鈥� will enjoy all kinds of activities, everything from athletic programs, basketball camps, football camps鈥� it鈥檚 a place for gathering and a place for comradery and fun for students, also for learning 鈥� there will be a number of classes held here.鈥�
Morgan said she is also engaging with the business community to ensure they鈥檙e making the areas around their property safe and welcoming to people, especially youth.
