Federal prosecutors are teaming up with law enforcement agencies in Ventura and Los Angeles counties to launch a new push to stop gun violence.
The program will step up prosecution of gun offenders in federal court, where they will face tougher laws and sentences than at the state level.
"In recent years, we've seen an increase in gun vilence. Guns have become easier to acquire," said Martin Estrada. He's the U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, which includes Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo Counties
At a Los Angeles news conference, Estrada said he’s assigned four federal prosecutors to specifically deal with these gun related cases.
"With Operation Safe City, we're aiming federal resources, and federal sentencing statutes directly against violent gun criminals," said Estrada.
Ventura County Sheriff Jim Fryhoff says the new program will help the county’s efforts to deal with gun violence.
