Videos
Press Event Portland Law Enforcement and Senator Merkley Talk Early Ed
PORTLAND, Ore. (Oct. 29, 2012) — Law enforcement leaders unveiled a new report from FIGHT CRIME: INVEST IN KIDS today calling on state and federal lawmakers to support high-quality early learning programs as a critical strategy to reduce crime, lower corrections costs and save taxpayers’ money. During a visit to the Albina Head Start McCormack-Matthews Center, the area’s top law enforcement leaders discussed research showing that early care and education must be of high quality to ensure solid, long-term results, including lower crime and tax savings. Multnomah County District Attorney Michael Schrunk, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Captain Monte Reiser and Portland Chief of Police Mike Reese participated in the event with Senator Merkley. National Head Start Association Board Chairman and Albina Head Start Director Ron Herndon also participated. (Read the full press release here: http://www.fightcrime.org/portland-la…)
WVII: Educators and Law Enforcement Push for Early Education
From WVII: “A new report from the “Fight Crime: Invest in Kids” program shows education in the early years of a child’s life could prevent future crime and result in more productive members of society. Erin Thomas reports.”
WGAL: Learning Matters Segment on Child Abuse Prevention
KULR8: Officials Address Child Abuse
KULR8: Officials Address Child Abuse
By MacLeod Hageman
Story Published: Apr 26, 2012 at 11:02 PM MDT
BILLINGS – Law enforcement officials said statistics show survivors of child abuse or neglect are likely to commit a violent crime later in life. A new strategy is being developed to stop both.
In 2010, Montana received nearly $3 million in grants to battle child abuse and neglect. “I’ve been around this business for over twenty years, and I’ve seen some pretty sad cases, and it’s just not good. If we can prevent even one case, then we’re doing our job. I think with a program like this we’re going to see more prevention,” Sheriff Mike Linder said.
Yellowstone County Sheriff Mike Linder and County Attorney Scot Twito have joined the Fight Crime Invest in Kids campaign. It’s dedicated to eliminating child abuse in unstable homes. …
Inspiration – D.A. James Backstrom
James Backstrom has prosecuted hundreds of cases since becoming the county attorney in Dakota County, Minn. in 1987. However, one case in particular “broke his heart.” Backstrom has a picture on a bookcase in his private office: photographs of Dillon, a young boy who died as a result of child abuse.
“I put my heart and soul into that case…I take inspiration from those children who aren’t with us any more. I take inspiration about the importance of the work we do in terms of protecting kids and fighting for justice when kids have been abused and neglected.”