Chief Hawkins: “Clear and convincing” progress in the fight against gun violence

Mayor Kathy Sheehan and Albany Police Chief Eric Hawkins provided updates to the public on their strategies to make the city safer.

On Monday, Sheehan and Hawkins shared statistics and data which indicate significant decreases in virtually all gun violence in the area. This includes confirmed shots fired cases, the number of incidents, and the number of victims.

Chief Eric Hawkins pointed to those numbers, calling them “clear and convincing” evidence that progress is being made.

“We can’t always predict when things are going to happen. We can’t predict when another human being is going to have an episode and decide to shoot another person.” Chief Hawkins said. “But what we can have in place is a solid strategy… a solid foundation so when those things happen, we can pivot.”

There was also a Neighborhood Night Out on Monday. During the gathering on Orange Street, several issues were addressed that impact residents in Albany, including gun violence prevention.