Violence Intervention Program (VIP)

Our Approach

The Violence Intervention Program (VIP) was launched in March 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic as an initiative embedded within the Albuquerque Police Department (APD). The program was developed to reduce gun violence by combining a public health framework with a focused-deterrence law enforcement strategy.

During its initial pilot phase, VIP established key program components designed to address and prevent group-related gun violence. The program is based on the Group Violence Intervention (GVI) strategy developed by the National Network for Safe Communities at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York.

Core components of the program include:

• Multi-agency law enforcement shooting reviews
• Implementation of custom notifications to individuals at high risk of involvement in gun violence
• Development of a Violence Intervention peer support and social services network

In late 2022, the VIP initiative transitioned to the Albuquerque Community Safety (ACS) Department, where it more closely aligned with a public health approach to interrupt cycles of violence in Albuquerque. This transition allowed the program to further emphasize peer support and social services, addressing the social determinants of health and disparities that contribute to increases in violent gun crime.

VIP delivers Custom Notifications—brief messages of care, concern, and support shared with individuals at the highest risk of experiencing or being involved in gun violence. Participants are identified through analysis of crime data to ensure outreach reaches those who may benefit most from intervention and support.

VIP Peer Support Workers partner with Albuquerque Police Department (APD) officers to conduct outreach and deliver credible messages that emphasize safety, dignity, and the value of every life. Individuals are offered connections to community-based resources such as housing, employment, behavioral health services, and other supports that address immediate needs and reduce risk.

A central component of the program is peer support from team members with lived experience. Peer Support Workers build trust, reduce barriers to care, and help individuals identify their needs while connecting them with services and resources that support long-term stability.

The goal of Custom Notifications and ongoing peer engagement is to interrupt cycles of violence and support safer pathways forward. Program success is measured not only by reductions in violence but also by continued engagement with services after outreach.

As part of this approach, individuals are informed that continued involvement in violence may result in focused law enforcement action, reinforcing both support and accountability while prioritizing prevention and community safety. As we evolve, we are strengthening collaboration with public safety agencies to identify individuals reentering the community after incarceration at an earlier stage and connect them with support services aimed at reducing recidivism.

Reaching People When it Matters Most

ACS is committed to preventing gun violence and keeping all New Mexicans safe.

Gun buy-backs: These are safe surrender events facilitated in partnership with ACS, New Mexican to Prevent Gun Violence (NMPGV), Albuquerque Police Department (APD) and other local partners. Participants can anonymously surrender firearms in working condition in exchange for cash for each firearm turned in.  The cash is provided by NMPGV and not at the expense of ACS nor APD.

ERFPO: We support proactive measures to keep our communities safe, including the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act - New Mexico Department of Justice, which temporarily restricts firearm access for individuals at risk of harming themselves or others. We also work collaboratively with law enforcement to provide follow-up supportive services for those served with ERFPO, helping prevent potential tragedies while respecting the rights of responsible gun owners.

What Peer-Led Support Looks Like

Peers help candidates of custom notifications access ongoing care and offer continued follow-up after discharge. Individuals are offered personalized, judgement-free support, which may include:

• Safety planning and crisis stabilization support
• Help with Crime Victims Reparation Commission (CVRC) applications for lost wages and funeral costs
• Peer mentorship and follow-up care
• Referrals to therapy and counseling
• Connections to long-term supportive services in the community
• Job readiness and employment support
• Education support, including GED, college, and trade programs
• NARCAN access and training
• Transitional Housing referrals
• Detox, treatment, and support group connections
• Food boxes
• Assistance with benefit applications:
  • Medicaid
  • SNAP/EBT
  • TANF
  • SSI and SSDI
  • LIHEAP: utility assistance

Peer Workforce

Are you a Certified Peer Support Worker (CPSW)? ACS is actively hiring individuals with lived experience who are compassionate, motivated, and ready to help others heal. Send your resume to the email below. 

Not a CPSW but you're looking to make a difference? Albuquerque Community Safety's VIP division understands the value of those with lived experience and is dedicated to help contribute to developing this workforce. ACS focuses on preparing individuals who are successfully engaged in long-term recovery with mental health and/or substance use conditions and maintaining their mental wellness to help others in their recovery process.

Through strategic workforce development programs, ACS empowers individuals with lived experience to become effective peers by providing appropriate training and support towards becoming a CPSW through the New Mexico Credentialing Board.  

Need Support?

If you or someone you know could benefit from this program, we’re here to help.

Call: 505-768-4818

Email: [email protected]