There is a new program underway in Mount Vernon to battle violence and get hardcore criminals off the streets.

With the help of a state grant, city police are collaborating with Yonkers police, New York State troopers and the District Attorney?s office in an initiative called Operation TRACI (Targeted Reduction of Area Crimes Initiative). The program targets areas of high-crime and gang activity in the city. In the first four days, police made 21 arrests for drug possession, 20 cars were impounded and 22 people were arrested for selling liquor to minors.Mayor Ernie Davis says he's aware that more programs need to be put in place to help the community, but the problem of crime comes first.