What is Weed and Seed?
Weed and Seed is a U.S. Department of Justice initiative which began in 1991 when 21 pilot sites across the nation were selected to implement the strategy. Operation Weed and Seed is a multi-agency strategy that "weeds out" violent crime, gang activity, drug use, and drug trafficking in targeted high crime neighborhoods and "seeds" the target area by restoring these neighborhoods through social and economic revitalization. The Weed and Seed strategy recognizes the importance of linking and integrating federal, state, and local social services, the private sector, and community efforts to maximize the impact of existing programs and resources. Residents are empowered to assist in solving problems in their neighborhoods. Representatives from the private sector, as well as local community involvement, are pivotal partners in the Weed and Seed strategy.
What is the role of the United States Attorney?
At each site, the United States Attorney plays a central role in Weed and Seed. Because of their leadership role in law enforcement and status as the local DOJ representative, U.S. Attorneys are uniquely positioned to serve as both the main contact to Weed and Seed sites for the Executive Office for Weed and Seed, and facilitator of community-based coalitions and cooperation. The U.S. Attorney provides support to each site by:
- assisting with Steering Committee formation by encouraging community leaders, law enforcement officials, service providers and residents to cooperate, form partnerships, and commit to serving on Weed and Seed Steering Committees.
- assisting with developing Weed and Seed strategies by chairing or working closely with Weed Subcommittees.
- reviewing site applications for Official Recognition and providing support to the Executive Office for Weed and Seed.
- serving as a partner in planning Asset Forfeiture funded joint law enforcement operations and assisting sites with developing Asset Forfeiture budgets.
Where are the sites in the Northern District of Texas?
- Near Southeast Fort Worth Weed and Seed Fort Worth, Texas
- Pleasant Grove Weed and Seed Dallas, Texas
- Two-Points Ferguson Road Weed and Seed Dallas, Texas
- East Dallas Weed and Seed Dallas, Texas
- West Dallas Weed and Seed Dallas, Texas
- South Dallas Weed and Seed Dallas, Texas
- Ferguson Road Initiative Weed and Seed Dallas, Texas
- Dalworth Weed and Seed Grand Prairie, Texas