Macon-Bibb County has hired Jeremy Grissom to be its first Macon Violence Prevention (MVP) Coordinator, tasked with overseeing the numerous programs and efforts being undertaken to reduce and prevent violent crime in the community.

“This is a dream job…nobody would turn down an opportunity to do this much good in their community,” says Grissom. “This is our chance to make sure every MVP program is fully supported, that each has the resources needed to make a difference, and that the community knows what is being done to decrease violence.”

“Improving public safety is the top priority for our community, and I’m reminded of that time and time again when talking to people,” says Mayor Lester Miller. “I’m proud of our community stepping forward to come up with programs, efforts, and ways to reduce violence…to be part of this team effort…and I’m excited Jeremy is coming on board to help coordinate it all and make sure we are making a positive difference.”

Grissom comes to the MVP program with years of public safety experience, working with people who had already become part of the judicial system. He’s worked in corrections in Chatham County helping people be ready to be good citizens when released, with probations and parole, and even as a criminal investigator for the state. It’s those experiences, working with people who already had gone down a negative path, that made him want to get involved with people before they turned to crime.

“I saw the reality of the suffering that occurs to people and families when there is a lack of resources and support. Too often, our society doesn’t recognize or address an issue until it’s too late, but with MVP, we can stop the issue before it begins,” says Grissom. “I’m looking forward to bringing all of the people and groups together, expanding their reach, and having MVP make a huge, positive, and long-lasting impact on our community.”