Erie County District Attorney Mike Keane Editorial

Erie County District Attorney Mike Keane

In Western New York, we look forward to the warm weather that brings more opportunities to experience the outdoors, engage with our friends and neighbors, attend festivals and enjoy community events. As the District Attorney, I want everyone in Erie County - whether they reside in our cities, suburbs or rural communities - to have a safe summer.  

Every year, as the temperatures rise, the potential for crime increases. The so-called “summer spike” is not just a talking point - it is a consistent, data-backed trend. The longer days bring more social activity to our neighborhoods, but unfortunately it can also create opportunities for conflict.

Over the past few years, we have made measurable progress in reducing gun-involved violence in Erie County. This achievement is the result of coordinated law enforcement efforts, enhanced prosecution strategies, collaborative partnerships with violence interrupters, and, most importantly, our citizens choosing cooperation over silence.

Last month, I joined Governor Kathy Hochul, County Executive Mark Poloncarz, Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan, members of the Buffalo Police Department and other partners to announce the success of state investments in public safety resulting in a historic low in violent crime. Last year, there were 39 homicides in Erie County, the lowest number of homicides in one year since at least 1984 – when we first started recording this data.  

But this reduction in violent crime is not guaranteed to be permanent. This spring, the City of Buffalo has experienced several gun-involved homicides and non-fatal shootings. If we become complacent now, we risk undoing the hard-earned progress we achieved together to save lives and create safer communities.

Law enforcement alone cannot prevent crime. We need residents to remain vigilant and engaged. That means reporting suspicious activity, even when it feels minor. It means establishing routines to ensure your vehicle and property are secure. It means having conversations with your children about the serious consequences of criminal behavior, always being aware of their whereabouts, and monitoring their online activity.

Trust between police and the public is crucial to both solve and prevent crime. When witnesses come forward or tips are shared, cases are solved faster and violence is deterred. Silence, on the other hand, creates opportunities for perpetrators to escape accountability and commit future offenses.

If you have information about a crime, I encourage you to contact your local police department as the smallest detail could be critical to aid an investigation. Citizens can also anonymously contact Crime Stoppers WNY (716-867-6161) with information about homicides, violent crime or illegal firearms.

Public safety is not just the responsibility of those who wear a badge. It belongs to all of us.