Gregory Chris Brown, associate professor of criminal justice, was recognized by the city of Los Angeles with a certificate of recognition for his work with the Southern California Cease Fire Committee, a compilation of law enforcement, gang interventionists, clergy, community activists and other organizations that tackle issues relating to gang violence in greater Los Angeles.
“One of my areas of expertise is the sociology of gangs, so I was attracted to the Southern California Ceasefire Committee because of the work they do,” explained Brown, who is studying OGs — original gangsters, or older individuals who have been involved in gang life for years — as part of ongoing research. “I have presented for them best practices for gang intervention and meet with their executive committee regularly to discuss issues as they relate to gangs from an academic perspective.”