Violence is not a distant national concern with no bearing on our city—it is a persistent reality that deeply affects our Knoxville community. Its impact extends beyond individuals, leaving lasting physical, emotional, and financial scars on families and communities. While violence can touch every corner of our city, we recognize that its burden falls disproportionately on underserved and underrepresented communities.

Between 2020 and 2021, Knoxville endured 82 homicides and 188 nonfatal shooting victims. These numbers underscored an urgent truth: Knoxville needed solutions to stop the devastating loss of life and build a safer Knoxville for us all.

The Office of Community Safety was established by Mayor Indya Kincannon in August 2021 from a recognized need to address and reduce violence within the community through a coordinated and strategic approach. Acting as a central hub, the office unites city departments, community organizations, and local stakeholders to collaboratively develop and implement sustainable solutions focused on enhancing public safety and promoting social equity. Prioritizing trust-building and the removal of barriers to essential resources and opportunities, the office emphasizes a holistic, data-driven strategy to address both immediate safety concerns and the underlying causes of violence. Through these efforts, the Office of Community Safety is laying the groundwork for long-term, positive change in Knoxville's most vulnerable neighborhoods, fostering a safer, stronger, and more resilient community.

LaKenya Middlebrook
Director of Community Safety & Empowerment
Suite 691, City-County Building
[email protected]
865-215-3155

Star Starks
Partnerships & Programs Manager
Suite 532A, City County Building
[email protected]
865-215-4229