U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves Welcomed Youth to 14th Annual “Breaking the Silence on Youth Violence” Youth Summit

            WASHINGTON - U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves and numerous local and federal law enforcement agencies and community-based organizations welcomed about 150 District youths to the 14^th Annual “Breaking the Silence on Youth Violence” Youth Summit,” held today at The Catholic University of America’s Przybyla Center.      

            The event focused on a variety of subjects, including opioid abuse prevention, gun violence prevention, and mental health awareness.  A moment of silence was held to remember young victims lost by homicide in 2024. The Summit featured dynamic speakers, entertainment, information, and resources. U.S. Attorney Graves presented the United States Attorney’s Office’s Youth Citizenship Awards to four participants.

            Thousands of the District’s youth have participated in the Summit since the U.S. Attorney’s Office began holding this event. The Summit is a part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhood Program, a nationwide effort to reduce violent crime.

            The U.S. Attorney thanks this year’s partners: the East of the River Family Strengthening Collaborative; the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation; The Catholic University of America, including its Department of Public Safety; the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, DC; the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; the Metro Transit Police Department; the D.C. Housing Police Department; the U.S. Marshals Service; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Department of Housing; and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigation.     

            The event is planned and executed each year by members of the Community Engagement Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.