what can be done to minimize the effects of violence in my community?

Getting assistance or reporting a concern

If you or someone in your community needs assistance, wishes to report an incident, or has questions about public safety data, the following resources are available:

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED)
For statewide crime data inquiries or SCIBRS (South Carolina Incident-Based Reporting System) support.

Email: SCIBRS@sled.sc.gov

Office: 803-896-5961 | 803-896-0405

Address: SLED Headquarters, 4400 Broad River Road, Columbia, SC 29210

City of Charleston Citizen Support Center

For local inquiries, community assistance, and non-emergency concerns.

Main Line: 843-724-7311

*If you’re unsure which agency to contact, start with the Citizen Support Center, and your request will be directed to the appropriate department.

Community centered approaches

Targeted violence prevention: a community-centered approach 

This is a training program created by Right To Be, designed for situations where you may personally know someone showing concerning or violent behavior. This program equips you with the tools to notice concerning behaviors, respond with care, and take action before harm occurs.

Learning objectives:

- What targeted violence is and how it differs from other forms of harm 

- Common warning signs and behaviors to look out for 

- How to intervene using the “3 C’s Model”:

- Consult with trusted others 

- Connect with the person through care 

- Coordinate with your community for a shared response 

Click here for details about upcoming training programs and finding related resources.

CDC - Preventing Community Violence 

This resource highlights how conditions of work, learning, and play can help prevent community violence. The researchers behind this source believe community violence is preventable, and everyone has a role. It provides information on prevention, treatment, and resources. Find the full article here.

Overview:

- Improving the conditions in which people live can help stop violence in communities. However, not everyone has the same access to resources to have a healthy and safe life (good schools, well-paying jobs, affordable food and housing, clean water, sense of place, etc.)

- Uses the philosophy that if we work together using proven approaches to prevent violence, we can help make our communities better.

Helpful Articles

We believe the articles below provide valuable information about strategies, evidence, community-based approaches, and tools for reducing violence in a community.

Community violence intervention and prevention strategies 

Read the full article here.

Youth.Gov Violence Prevention

Read the full article here.

Community violence interrupter 

Read the full article here.

10 actions cities can take to reduce violence now

Read the full article here.