NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:  Wednesday, June 7, 2006

HARTFORD POLICE CHIEF PATRICK J. HARNETT
ANNOUNCES THE FORMATION OF OPERATION “TRUE NORTH”

(Hartford) - In continuing efforts by the Hartford Police Department and its law enforcement and community partners to stabilize those neighborhoods plagued by recent high levels of criminal gang activity and gun violence, Chief Patrick J. Harnett today announced the formation of Operation “True North”.  The mission of Operation “True North” is to “identify, aggressively pursue, and bring to justice those individuals involved in gangs who are responsible for committing acts of violence in the Northeast sector of our city,” stated Harnett.

Chief Harnett went on to say that Operation “True North” will consist primarily of officers assigned to the Northeast District as part of the HPD’s Neighborhood Policing Plan.  The Northeast Neighborhood Policing Team includes officers from the HPD’s Patrol Division, Conditions Teams, Narcotic/Gun Teams, and detectives from the Major Crimes and Juvenile Investigation Divisions.  In addition HPD detectives, federal agents from the Alcohol Tax and Firearms Bureau, and U.S. Marshal’s Service, who make up the federally funded Violent Crime Impact Team (VCIT) as part of the HPD Intelligence Division, will be part of Operation “True North”.  

The State Police will provide support to the patrol function of Operation “True North” by providing a supervisor and six troopers.  These troopers will be partnered with Hartford officers and provide enhanced enforcement and directed patrols in designated areas.  The State Police will also provide investigative resources to be partnered with HPD detectives.

Operation “True North” will also aggressively solicit help and cooperation from the community through effective communication, including opening an easy to remember TIPS HOTLINE 860-527-TIPS that will be staffed by experienced investigators.  Connecticut Chief State’s Attorney Christopher Morano has pledged the assistance of his Witness Protection Unit offering protection to information sources/witnesses who aid in successful prosecution of offenders.

Members of Operation “True North” will identify and aggressively pursue gang members to seize guns and to prevent further violence.  They will also seek to develop information leading to the arrest and incarceration of those gang members responsible for the past shootings. “The overall goal is to stop the violence in the affected neighborhoods, reduce fear, and improve the “Quality of Life” for residents, business owners, and visitors to the City of Hartford,” stated Harnett.

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Contact:   Nancy Mulroy, Public Information Officer, Hartford Police Department,  (860) 543-8746
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