District of Columbia Youth Violence Prevention and Intervention Program

The Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia (OAG) is the District's chief prosecutor of crimes committed by juveniles. OAG prioritizes public safety and positive youth development as a core pillar of its mission. The first initiative focuses on expanding the Leaders of Tomorrow grant program, which funds local non-profits for crime reduction, violence interruption, and youth development. Recognizing the vital role of community organizations, OAG launched the program in FY24 to support non-profits dedicated to identifying and mitigating risk factors for youth violence. Recipients will compete for an increased award in FY25, allowing successful organizations to expand their reach and deliver high-quality programming. Success will be measured by youth engagement, increased feelings of safety, improved social-emotional skills, reduced risk factors for violence, and stronger social bonds for participants. The second initiative proposes a pilot gun accountability program. Through research and collaboration with policymakers, OAG identified targeted programs as effective tools to reduce gun violence, enhance public safety, and provide alternatives to incarceration. One successful model is prosecutor-led gun alternative prosecution programs, which shown promising results after individuals enter into the specialized program with intensive intervention services. After entering a plea and successful completion, their charges are dismissed. Inspired by the success of specialty courts and increased participation rates seen with youth offered case dismissal options, OAG aims to implement an evidence-based, trauma-focused program specifically for District youth (under 18) charged with illegal gun possession. Eligible youth (without prior adjudications for violent crimes) will be fast-tracked for immediate connection with a mentor and a uniquely tailored service plan addressing the root causes of their involvement. Program success will be measured by completion rates and overall reduced recidivism.