The content discusses the arrest of Jermaine Greene, an ex-convict who was caught with a loaded gun and drugs in a New York City subway station. Greene is a member of Bronx Rises Against Gun Violence, a taxpayer-funded organization that aims to create safer communities in the Bronx by working with young people in the area. Despite his criminal history, including a previous murder conviction in Delaware, Greene was found with a 9mm Polymer80 gun and crack cocaine while attempting to evade subway fare through an emergency exit.
Bronx Rises Against Gun Violence released a statement acknowledging Greene’s arrest and stating that they are conducting an internal investigation to ensure the safety and trust of their program participants and the communities they support. The organization, which is operated by non-profit Good Shepherd Services and partially funded by government grants, utilizes the Cure Violence model to prevent future violence by engaging with violently injured youth and their communities. The organization primarily employs “credible messengers” who have personal experience living in violent neighborhoods, as well as individuals with criminal backgrounds.
Greene’s role within Bronx Rises Against Gun Violence is not immediately clear, but the organization is known for its work in areas of the Bronx plagued by gun violence and its efforts to connect with at-risk youth in the borough. Despite the organization’s mission to promote non-violent norms and provide support resources through activities like shooting responses and community events, Greene’s arrest calls into question the effectiveness of their programs. The arrest raises concerns about the credibility and trustworthiness of the organization, especially given Greene’s criminal history and the serious nature of the charges he is facing.
Law enforcement sources reported that Greene is facing multiple charges related to weapon possession and drug possession, indicating that he will likely be prosecuted for his actions. NYPD Chief of Transit Michael Kemper commented on Greene’s arrest, expressing dismay that a convicted murderer on parole was found carrying a loaded gun while attempting to evade subway fare. Kemper emphasized the importance of transit safety and the need to address open lawlessness in New York City, citing Greene’s actions as an example of the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating crime and ensuring public safety in the city’s subway system.
Despite his criminal history and the severity of the charges against him, Greene’s affiliation with Bronx Rises Against Gun Violence raises questions about the organization’s vetting process for employees and the effectiveness of their programs in addressing gun violence and supporting at-risk youth. The incident underscores the complexities of addressing crime and violence in urban areas, particularly when individuals with criminal backgrounds are involved in anti-violence initiatives. It remains to be seen how Bronx Rises Against Gun Violence will address Greene’s arrest and its implications for their reputation and credibility as a taxpayer-funded organization dedicated to promoting safer communities in the Bronx.
