Meet Hartford's Self-Defense Brigade: Taking Crime Fighting Into Their Own Hands

These people understand that the government won't always be there to save them.

Jun 11, 2024

∙ Paid

A group of about 40 diverse, legally armed citizens patrolling the dimly-lit streets of a neighborhood. The group consists of men and women of various ages, predominantly Black, wearing civilian clothes with visible body cameras and holstered firearms. The urban backdrop includes residential buildings and street lights casting long shadows. A few drones hover overhead. The atmosphere is tense but controlled, with the group walking in a coordinated manner, looking vigilant and ready to act. The image evokes a sense of unity and determination among the group members as they watch over their community. No police presence is visible.

In Hartford, Connecticut, a predominantly Black neighborhood has taken an innovative and controversial step to combat rising violent crime instead of relying on the police to protect their community. Known as the “Self-Defense Brigade,” this group of about 40 legally armed citizens patrols the streets and monitors the neighborhood in an effort to keep t…

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