The Metro: Funding is running out for ShotStopper crime reduction program

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ShotStoppers is Detroit’s most prized crime reduction program. For a little over a year, the community-based intervention project has helped stop violence before it happens.

The numbers speak loudly. Detroit had 203 homicides by the end of 2024, its lowest number recorded since 1965. Last October, the city also had a 45 percent drop in homicides in areas where ShotStoppers was implemented — that’s compared to an 18 percent drop in places without it.

But ShotStoppers may not continue beyond 2025. The program rests on federal American Rescue Plan Act money, which will soon reach an end. State Democrats missed an opportunity to fund ShotStoppers programs in Detroit and in other Michigan cities during their lame duck session.

Many Detroiters are concerned about the program ending, along with the Detroit Police Department. Producer Sam Corey sat down with interim Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison to learn more about the program and how he’s advocating for sustained funding. Bettison was selected by Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan to be the city’s next police chief and is awaiting confirmation by city council. 

Use the media player above to hear the conversation.

Hear more stories from The Metro on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025.

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