Reducing recidivism rates in New Haven

New Haven, Conn. (WTNH) - A plan to stop the cycle of violence is in the works in New Haven.

Police were fanning out in New Haven last week, going after individuals wanted on drug and gun charges, many of whom have criminal records.

This is part of a plan that is being set in motion to keep better tabs on those who were recently released from jail.

"We all lost track of what is going on and rather than 'they're working on something, I'm working on something,'" said Lt. Thaddus Reddish, New Haven Police Department, "we are working together."

The crime fighting plan which New Haven is announcing includes having parole and probation officers working along side police officers. They will even be going on surveillance right into the neighborhood, to make sure clients are following the rules of release.

The goal is to reduce the rate of repeat offenders and rearrests by watching over high risk individuals.

"You really target intensive supervision and intensive resources," said Reddish, "so what you see here is an effort to marry the supervision, as well as the resources."

The program will begin with 80 clients, divided up into four neighborhoods.

When News 8 asked New Haven Mayor John DeStefano how residents will know if this new crime fighting strategy is working, he replied, "It should be quieter, it should be a greater sense of order and less violent activity."