DOJ and Orange County Officals Assist Apopka Task Force on Violence

The first meeting of the Apopka Community Task Force on Violence is drawing attention outside of Apopka.

While the work of the Task force will be accomplished primarily by the efforts of local volunteers, the Task Force will need access to a variety of resources to ultimately be successful, according to Task Force Co-Chair Rod Love.

Roger B. Handberg Chief, Criminal Division, United States Attorney’s Office Middle District of Florida[/caption]

One source of resources may be the United States Department of Justice. Roger B. Handberg will be at Thursday's first meeting of the Apopka Community Task Force on Violence, Task Force Co-Chair Rod Love announced today.

Handberg is the Chief of the United States Attorney's Criminal Division for the Middle District of Florida.

The violence in the Apopka-area is not limited to the City of Apopka, therefore, another important resource will be Orange County Government. Bryan Nelson, County Commissioner for District 2 will also be at the meeting on Thursday night.

Nelson also participated in the formation of the Task Force last month.

County CommissionerBryan Nelson

"After four shootings in District 2 I thought we needed to look at the problem and see if we could come up with long term solutions not just law enforcement solutions," said Nelson. "The key is giving our kids not only educational opportunities but also after school activities as well as career opportunities which are the keys to success."

The Apopka Community Task Force on Violence was formed last month in response to the increase in violence in the Apopka Community, which includes the City of Apopka and parts of unincorporated Orange County.

The Task Force plans to work for 90-days and then issue recommendations to the City of Apopka and Orange County officials.