New Haven holds forum on how to curb violence

New Haven, Conn. (WTNH) - A forum was held Wednesday night on how to curb violence in New Haven; it comes as police investigate the city's 23rd homicide of the year.

It was called fighting back vs. killing in our cities and News 8 was one of the sponsors. It was a chance to voice your opinion, vent your frustrations and hopefully, come up with some creative ideas to change what's happening on the streets of New Haven.

There is no simple solution, but if it's any consolation, many people are looking for the solution. The auditorium at the Co- op Arts and Humanities High School on College Street was packed Wednesday night.

Everyone is looking for answers to stop the violence on the streets, and everyone has a different take on the issue.

"Patrols on every block, foot patrols, that's what I think," said Willie J. Ellis, New Haven. "It won't stop it, but it'll slow it down."

"It's a combination of creating alternatives for the youth in addition to creating jobs," said Mubarakah Ibrahim, New Haven, "which is also a challenge in the economy that we're dealing with."

There have been 32 homicides in New Haven this year, a staggering number for a city so small.

"I have four kids between the ages of 11 and 17," said Ibrahim, "so it is a concern for me because that's the age range that's being effected the most."

It was clear Wednesday night that the whole community is effected. Some specific strategies were looked at including the cease-fire project and the 'broken window' approach. The pros and cons were weighed carefully. The chief and the mayor, were both present, both listening, but in the end, there are no simple solutions.

"I just want to sit and listen," said Ellis, "see what they got to say, what strategy they're gonna use."