Meet our Lead Violence Interrupter at FORCE Detroit

What inspired you to do this work?

C-MO: I’m inspired to do this work because of the lifestyle I once lived in the streets. I understand the struggles firsthand, and I want to help others find a way out, just like I did.

Can you describe your role as a violence interrupter?

C-MO: My job involves overseeing violence interrupters, managing their daily schedules, and ensuring they make the necessary phone calls and home visits. We engage with individuals in conflict, working to de-escalate situations before violence occurs—or intervening after it already has.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in this work?

C-MO: The biggest challenge is dealing with the everyday trauma that our participants and their families experience. We’re constantly exposed to their struggles, and that can be heavy to carry day after day; however, we understand that this is what is necessary to make our community safe.

How do you approach de-escalating conflicts?

C-MO: The key is getting a grip on the aggressor. I focus on making contact with the main person involved and shifting their mindset—getting them to stop playing offense and start thinking defensively. That change in perspective can help prevent a violent reaction.

Can you share a moment that had a major impact on you?

C-MO: I knew a young man who had been involved in multiple shootings. Because of the relationship I built with him, I was able to help him get back into school and leave behind gang life.  That same individual  hasn’t had any shooting involved instances. That’s the kind of change that keeps me going.

Community & Conflict Dynamics

How do you build trust with people involved in violence?

C-Mo: You have to be trained in Community Violence Intervention (CVI) and know how to navigate the streets. Being informed and showing that you truly understand their reality helps build trust.

Have you noticed any patterns in conflicts that lead to violence?

C-Mo: Social media disrespect is a huge trigger. A simple online argument can spiral into real-world violence quickly.

How do you engage with participants and keep them on a positive path?

C-MO: We focus on getting them enrolled in programs and connected with other organizations that can help with education and job placement. Giving them real opportunities makes a difference.

Collaboration & Solutions

How can community organizers support violence interrupters like yourself?

C-MO: Communication is key. We need to be on the same page, identifying the main people involved in CVI work and bringing coalitions together around the same agenda.

What are some of the biggest resource gaps you face?

C-MO: Employment. If we could get every participant employed, I believe we would see crime rates drop significantly. Jobs provide motivation and stability for our youth.

What programs have been particularly effective in reducing violence?

C-MO: The Rites of Passage program has been extremely helpful. It gives young people structure, mentorship, and a sense of purpose. I also believe we need to implement financial literacy programs so that participants can learn how to manage their money and build a better future.

How do you measure success in your work?

C-MO: Success is seeing participants who once doubted the program now motivated to do the work themselves. When they start making positive choices on their own, that’s a win.

What would help improve youth engagement?

C-MO: We need a community center that stays open, even after hours. A school like Cody High School should have extended hours so kids have a safe space in arm’s reach.

Systemic & Policy-Level Change

What role do law enforcement and city policies play in your work?

C-MO: We don’t work directly with the police, but we respect their role in the community. We focus on intervention and prevention at the street level.

What systemic issues do you believe contribute most to violence?

C-MO: The everyday struggle—that’s what creates violence. Poverty, lack of education, and lack of opportunity all fuel the cycle.

What policies or programs would you like to see implemented?

C-MO: There needs to be training for CVI leaders and community education programs so people understand who we are and why we’re here. We also need more funding for events, fundraisers, and educational webinars to spread awareness and resources.