In October 2010, with support from the Joyce Foundation, 10 law enforcement organizations created The National Law Enforcement Partnership to Prevent Gun Violence, which aims to bring the collective voice of law enforcement organizations to bear on policies impacting public safety and gun violence. The partnership groups have agreed to a shared commitment of principles and five action goals, including support for policies that help prevent gun violence and curb illegal firearms.
In 2011, 163 police officers were killed in the line of duty, a 13 percent increase from the previous year. The Joyce Foundation supports policies and practices that help law enforcement combat gun crime and violence and ensure their safety. The National Law Enforcement Partnership helps to coordinate and facilitate efforts by the law enforcement community to strengthen the nation’s response to gun violence. The Gun Violence Prevention Program supports the Police Foundation to serve as the coordinating partner group to manage the Partnership’s educational campaigns.
The partners are guided by a Statement of Principles that reflect a shared commitment to reduce gun-related injuries and deaths to protect officer and community safety. The principles recognize that law enforcement plays a central role in preventing gun violence and solving crime. Therefore, effective strategies for strict enforcement of existing gun laws are essential and need to be supported by data, research, technology, training, and best practices.
In addition, the principles call on policy makers to close gaps in the current regulatory system that enable prohibited persons to gain access to firearms and allow trafficking of illegal guns. The partners also highlight the need for adequate resources to prioritize the protection of officers and communities from illegal guns and firearm violence.