Rick Dierenfeldt highlighted the recent decline in U.S. crime rates, attributing much of the progress to strong partnerships between UTC and local law enforcement. He spoke about UTC’s Violence Reduction Initiative, developed in collaboration with Chattanooga Police, which employs data‑driven strategies—like reopening cases, tracking crime guns, and using trauma‑informed interventions. These efforts have been instrumental in reducing firearm homicides, shootings, and overall violence in the community. >>> Listen >>>