Governor Kathy Hochul of New York City provided an update on the state's efforts to address various issues related to the court system, gun violence, hate crimes, domestic violence, and organized retail theft. The governor highlighted the unprecedented investments made to ensure a fair and efficient court system, including providing $130 million to district attorneys (DAs) for the implementation of discovery reform.
Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of clarifying bail laws and making changes to address their concerns. These changes were made in consultation with district attorneys to ensure their feasibility. As a result, gun violence has reached historic lows, with shootings decreasing by over a third.
To showcase the impact of these changes, Governor Hochul invited several district attorneys to share their experiences. Erie County District Attorney John Flynn discussed how his county effectively utilized the revised bail laws. Westchester D.A. Mimi Roca explained the partnership between her county and the state in combating hate crimes. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz highlighted their state-of-the-art approach to addressing domestic violence and protecting women and families. Brooklyn D.A. Eric Gonzalez emphasized the importance of tackling organized retail theft and repeat offenders.
Recognizing the critical role of district attorneys, Governor Hochul announced unprecedented funding levels. $347 million will be allocated to combat gun violence, while an additional $40 million will be dedicated to supporting district attorneys, local law enforcement, and state police in tackling retail theft and protecting domestic abuse victims. These funds aim to ensure that district attorneys have the necessary resources and staff to bring perpetrators to justice.
Governor Hochul emphasized her commitment to continuously changing laws and providing resources to address these pressing issues. She acknowledged the presence of the new superintendent of the state police, highlighting the collaboration between law enforcement agencies and district attorneys.
In conclusion, Governor Hochul stated that New York is united in its efforts to stand against crime and protect the state's residents. Public safety is a shared mission, and every New Yorker deserves a sense of security. With ongoing law changes and sufficient resources, the state is determined to make progress in addressing these crucial matters.
(Note: This article has been written using the transcript provided. It does not include any personal opinions or individual correspondents or reporters.)
