For Immediate Release

Oct. 22, 2020

Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, Raytown Police Chief Robert Kuehl and numerous community leaders will launch today at a 1 p.m. press conference in Raytown a new violence-reduction program, called Raytown United.

“We need not forget that cities do reduce violence,” Baker said. “Yes, it can be done.  We can do it here, in Raytown.”

Raytown Police Chief Robert Kuehl said that efforts to initiate Raytown United began months ago with an analysis of violent crime in Raytown conducted by crime analysts at the Raytown Police Department, Jackson County COMBAT and the Crime Strategies Unit in the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office. The analysis identified clusters of violence, primarily involving young offenders, and a low clearance of robberies in Raytown’s business corridors.

“We all have agreed on a fundamental decision in the focus of Raytown United,” Kuehl said. ”We will concentrate foremost on the offer of help.”

Kuehl and Darren Faulkner, who will work with individuals identified for help, said persons, especially youth, who are close to being involved in violent crime, will be offered help before law enforcement's options are limited. The goal will be to move them to a different future. 

Kuehl added that Raytown United will work with the Raytown Chamber of Commerce and business owners on the problem of solving more business robberies. He and other partners stressed that community service agencies and community members will be key to making the program succeed. 

Raytown United is based on proven violence-prevention programs. Baker said Raytown United also benefits from the efforts of Jackson County COMBAT in Raytown. Funds to support the assessment and management of services for clients receiving help also were recently approved by the COMBAT Commission and the Jackson County Legislature.

In addition, for many months COMBAT has supported the Raytown Strivin’ Safe Zone Hub Initiative, led by Carolyn Whitney, Director of Sisters in Christ, has worked extensively with key assets and service agencies in Raytown. Partners include the Raytown School District, Hope House, The Fatherhood Program, Boys and Girls Club, ReDiscover, First Call, MOCSA, Missouri Department of Health, Center for Conflict Resolution, Jackson County Family Court and the Raytown Police Department, Cornerstones of Care, Connections to Success, Raytown Christian Church, Jackson County Drug Task Force and Raytown Mayor Mike McDonough.

For more information, contact:

Michael Mansur

Director of Communication

Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office

Jean Peters Baker, Prosecutor

Work   : (816) 881-3812

Mobile: (816) 674-3954

mmansur@jacksongov.org

http://jacksoncountyprosecutor.com