Houston

Public Safety

Several public safety programs operate out of Houston's City Hall. The Office for Public Safety and Drug Policy employs the Office of Anti-Gang Activities, responsible for developing city initiatives to reduce gang and youth violence. Houston Crackdown coordinates and supports community volunteer projects in alcohol and drug abuse. The Mayor's Office administers the Crime Victims' Assistance Program, referring crime victims to legal and counseling services. In the year 2000, the City of Houston began sponsoring a new non-emergency service number: 3–1–1. The 3–1–1 program is designed to handle service requests, such as pothole repairs, and alleviate 9–1–1 non-emergency calls.