By james art Durham County leaders announced Friday the termination of the Bull City United anti-violence program.
The decision to close Bull City United takes effect Friday.
The county said the decision affects 20 full-time and contract employees.
“After reviewing the impact of Bull City United and aligning with the evolving needs of the community, the Department of Community Intervention and Support Services (CISS) will phase out the program,” a county spokesperson said in a statement to WRAL News.
Bull City United has received millions of dollars in taxpayer funding since its inception in November 2016. It was founded to address shootings in two areas in County Durham with a team of seven officers. According to the group’s mission, it aims to reduce violence in the community by hiring people with criminal backgrounds who can convince others that there is a better way.
The county expanded the program in 2021 to 25 officers in six areas in the county.
More than $1.06 million of the program’s $2.57 million budget is funded by the city of Durham, according to the county.
Several employees of the program have been charged with various crimes since the program’s inception.
County leaders began reviewing Bull City United after a man involved in the program was charged as an accessory after the fact in the 2022 slaying of a 19-year-old.
“The CISS department is dedicated to facilitating a smooth transition by offering support and connecting people with career and professional development resources as they pursue new opportunities, of their own choosing,” said Joan Pierce, Assistant District Manager of Community Wellbeing.