August 26, 2025

Newport News Faces Crime Prevention Challenges Amid Funding Cuts

News Summary

Newport News is struggling with significant challenges as recent federal funding cuts threaten crime prevention programs. Local organizations like Ketchmore Kids are affected, facing a loss of over $800 million in grants. Despite this, the city has reported a 13% reduction in overall crime, but concerns remain over the continuity of violence prevention efforts and investigations into past violent incidents. Local officials are exploring partnerships to ensure community safety and workforce training, while new initiatives aim to reduce gun violence.

Newport News is grappling with significant challenges as the Trump administration’s recent funding cuts for crime prevention programs coincide with efforts to enforce a crackdown on crime. The administration has faced increasing criticism for removing more than $800 million in grants last spring, a move that has negatively impacted non-profit organizations like Ketchmore Kids, which focuses on addressing gun violence in the region.

Newport News received a grant of $1,450,800 as part of a Community Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative, while neighboring Portsmouth secured $2,000,000. However, Newport News’ grant is set to expire at the end of September, raising concerns about the continuity of violence prevention efforts in the community. Portsmouth’s grant, in contrast, is scheduled to last until late 2026 but is also at risk of cuts.

Local officials like Councilman John Eley, co-founder of a free workforce development initiative titled “What’s Next: Breaking Barriers for Success,” have responded to these challenges by finding creative partnerships with local organizations to ensure continued workforce training for community members. The program has successfully assisted over 450 individuals in obtaining industry certifications, showcasing a commitment to addressing underlying social issues despite reductions in federal and state funding.

Meanwhile, Democratic lawmakers have voiced their concerns regarding the deployment of the National Guard in Washington, D.C., arguing that it is politically motivated amid the funding cuts to effective crime prevention programs. Maryland Governor Wes Moore has further criticized federal budget cuts impacting violence intervention groups and funding for local jurisdictions, calling attention to the need for strengthened community support systems.

Despite the backdrop of funding cuts, Newport News has reported a 13% reduction in overall crime over the past year, attributed to various community safety initiatives. The Newport News Police Department’s mid-year statistics indicate a notable decline in gun violence, with 36 fewer incidents recorded compared to the previous year. The Community Assistance Response Team (CARES) has also been established to address non-violent mental health calls more effectively, pairing paramedics with mental health professionals. This innovative approach allows law enforcement to concentrate on more critical duties while ensuring that community members in need receive appropriate care.

However, challenges remain, as investigations into the murders of two teenagers from the previous year persist, reflecting ongoing concerns over violent crime in the area. In response to community safety needs, Police Chief Steve Drew has announced initiatives such as accompanying children to school to enhance their safety during the critical morning hours.

The city is making strides in addressing gun violence, as evidenced by Mayor Phillip Jones’ commitment to reduce gun violence and homicides by 15% within the next 18 months. Newport News has also appointed Synethia White as the first community violence prevention manager, a position created to bolster community safety efforts since her appointment in November 2023.

Newport News is focusing on prevention and intervention to address the root causes of violence. White emphasizes the importance of building meaningful relationships with individuals and communities affected by violence to develop more effective prevention strategies. The city aims to sustain its progress in public safety while fostering a supportive environment for all residents, highlighting a long-term vision for communal resilience and safety.

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Additional Resources

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