Capital Region Anti-Gang Initiative Reaches More Than 1,600 Fifth-Graders

ALBANY, NEW YORK – United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith concluded the 2019 LEADership Project today at the Thomas O’Brien Academy of Science and Technology in Albany with seven fifth-grade students who completed the project this year, and many leaders and representatives of the participating federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. The LEADership Project, an anti-gang initiative, reaches fifth-grade students in the Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and Lansingburgh School Districts.  The project began with the Albany School District in 2011 and has grown since then.

United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith stated: “The LEADership Project is about investing in our children, for they are the ones to whom we will be passing the future of our republic and the rule of law on which it is grounded.  It is an important opportunity to tell students that we want them to excel and believe that they can, and that they should view law enforcement as a friend and supporter in their quest for success.  There is no substitute for law enforcement officials speaking directly to students about the dangers of gangs, the consequences of their conduct and the effects of their choices, and the importance of positive self-esteem in achieving their goals.  Reaching fifth-graders is crucial because we know that middle school can be a difficult transition period for students, where the temptation to join gangs and engage in other criminal behavior sometimes first arises.  I thank our law enforcement partners for generously donating their time to this important anti-crime effort; the superintendents, teachers, and staff who dedicate their lives to helping students learn and become their best; and the students whose participation is cause for great optimism.”

This year, 27 law enforcement agencies participated in the LEADership Project, providing 123 law enforcement officials who volunteered their time in fifth-grade classrooms.  They taught in over 80 classrooms, reaching more than 1,600 students.  The following agencies participated:

Federal agencies

State Agencies

Local Agencies