Extortion and exploitation: How to make money from gun crime

 

In the midst of the heightened tensions stirred by the murders of a significant number of young people this year, there were a number of reactionary events that took place, all hoping to discuss the problem and in some cases, generate workable solutions. Whilst many in the community began to grow weary and cynical about the effectiveness and sincerity of some of these events, there were those who saw the crisis as an opportunity to capitalise financially and professionally on the problem.

The Reducing Gun Crime: Police and Communities Working Together conference was widely criticised after it claimed to want to tackle gun crime amongst young people but sought to charge voluntary and community groups, many of whom are under funded or not funded at all, between £230 and £640 to attend. The event organisers claimed: “A joined-up approach is essential if gun crime is to be reduced. The policy makers, police, local authorities and YOTs must all work together for success to be achieved. This important and timely conference will bring together the key stakeholders.”

However, the extortionate cost for participants meant that some of the most important stakeholders were unable to attend. Such events have become common place complete with lavish venues, goodie bags and high profile, disconnected speakers with brown skin and serve as both tick box exercises for the government and add a misplaced credibility to the race equality careerists whose salary depends on the ability to facilitate the events. In the end, the political media stunt ultimately achieves very little or nothing, merely recycling debates and ideas that have been circulated in the community for years.