Governor Youngkin Launches Statewide Initiative to Combat Gangs and Gang Violence in Virginia

Governor Glenn Youngkin has signed Executive Order 41, launching a new partnership to combat gang violence across Virginia. The initiative aims to address gang recruitment, drug and human trafficking, and firearm-related violence. Building on efforts like Operation Bold Blue Line and Operation Ceasefire, the new order focuses on prevention, enforcement, and community support.

Virginia is facing threats from over 650 identified gangs. The order establishes a central gang intelligence task force, bolsters youth prevention efforts, and enhances law enforcement training. Officials credit these efforts for significant crime reductions, including a 34% drop in murders.

Governor Youngkin emphasized the need to take gang prevention to the “next level,” focusing on safer communities and continued crime reduction. Secretary Terry Cole added that the strategy is a statewide effort aimed at stopping criminal activities linked to Mexican cartels, transnational gangs, and violent organizations.

These efforts have already helped seize over 2,000 pounds of illegal narcotics valued at over $2 billion, including 415 pounds of fentanyl.

This order represents a comprehensive approach to addressing one of Virginia’s most pressing crime issues.