In Edenton, North Carolina, a new program aimed at combating crime has been making significant strides in improving community safety. The U.S. attorney of the Eastern North Carolina District recently held a press conference to commend law enforcement officials for their successful efforts in tackling violent crime. This program, known as the Violent Crime Apprehension Program (VCAP), has been instrumental in apprehending individuals involved in criminal activities and keeping them off the streets.
The formation of VCAP occurred eight months ago in response to a surge in violent incidents, including shootings and drug trafficking, in the region. U.S. attorney Michael Easley Jr. emphasized the program’s mission to create a safer and more secure environment for residents. By bringing together various law enforcement agencies, VCAP has been able to effectively address the root causes of violent crime and make significant progress in reducing criminal activity.
Since its inception, VCAP has led to the arrest of 21 individuals on federal charges, resulting in a total of 34 charges in northeastern North Carolina. Janice Cole, a former U.S. Attorney who played a key role in establishing VCAP, expressed her commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of the community. The program’s collaborative approach has proven to be successful in identifying and apprehending individuals involved in drug trafficking and illegal firearms possession.
One of the notable achievements of VCAP is the seizure of 26 firearms, including five machine guns, and 240 grams of fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid. This significant seizure has prevented the distribution of potentially deadly drugs and weapons in the community. Easley highlighted the ongoing efforts to target 47 individuals identified as contributing to violent crime, emphasizing the program’s determination to bring them to justice.
Despite the progress made by VCAP, law enforcement officials acknowledge that their work is far from over. The program continues to collaborate with state and federal agencies, such as the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement division, NCBI, the U.S. Marshals Service, and Homeland Security Investigations, to address the complex challenges posed by criminal activities. By working together, these agencies are able to leverage their resources and expertise to effectively combat crime and enhance public safety.
As the community celebrates the achievements of VCAP, it is evident that the program’s impact extends beyond individual arrests. By targeting the root causes of violent crime and addressing them proactively, VCAP is paving the way for a safer and more secure future for residents of Edenton and northeastern North Carolina. The dedication and commitment of law enforcement officials involved in VCAP serve as a testament to their unwavering resolve to protect and serve the community.