Oakland attributes a 6-decade low in homicides, in part, to life coaches
Oakland has reached a 60-year low in homicides, attributing part of the success to its Ceasefire-Lifeline program that connects individuals at high risk of gang violence with life coaches and support services. The program, revived after a 2023 audit, focuses on outreach rather than punishment, offering mentorship and resources to help people avoid violence. Homicides dropped from 118 in 2023 to 57 in 2024, the lowest level since 1967. The approach emphasizes personal connection, with coaches often sharing similar life experiences to those they mentor.
- ▪Oakland recorded 57 homicides in 2024, the lowest number since 1967.
- ▪The Ceasefire-Lifeline program pairs individuals at high risk of gun violence with life coaches to help them change their lives.
- ▪Homicides fell from 118 in 2023 to 78 in 2024 after the city reinstated and reformed the violence prevention program.
- ▪Police provide names of potential retaliation targets, but do not participate beyond that in the outreach effort.
- ▪Participants receive support such as job placement, counseling, and mentorship from coaches who often have experienced trauma themselves.
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ABC NewsLiveVideoShowsGood Morning AmericaShopGMAInterest Successfully AddedWe'll notify you here with news aboutTurn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? OffOnStream onOakland attributes a 6-decade low in homicides, in part, to life coachesThe California city of Oakland has driven homicides to historic lows by offering services including life coaches to people most likely to get pulled into gang-related shootingsByJANIE HAR Associated PressApril 29, 2026, 12:02 AM1:52Oakland Ceasefire-Lifeline life coach LaSasha Long, right, talks to Bernard C. during an interview Thursday, April 23, 2026, in Oakland, Calif. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)The Associated PressOAKLAND, Calif. -- Young men at risk of succumbing to gang violence slump over tables in an Oakland church.
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