It turns out that ex-convict “violence disruptors” in some of New York City’s more dangerous neighborhoods are getting millions worth of therapy for free, according to recent findings. The city is directing $1.2 million from a larger $6 million contract with Agape Moments LLC to launch the Strong Messengers Program, which aims to provide counseling to these disruptors—individuals with violent pasts who are employed to ease tensions among gangs they may have once been part of.
So far, 18 therapists have clocked in over 1,100 hours of group therapy across 32 organizations, which has benefited about 360 participants. The city’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene will keep this funding running through 2030.
Agape, whose name reflects the idea of “unconditional love,” has reported that their clinicians have delivered more than 390 hours of individual therapy to those who have chosen to leave behind violent behaviors. This initiative follows a 2024 agreement, established under former Mayor Eric Adams, that allows individuals to have up to 24 therapy sessions annually if they stop violent behavior.
One representative from Agape stated, “Putting resources into the mental health of community intervention workers directly boosts the long-term effectiveness of New York City’s public safety measures.” However, the program has attracted criticism, with some claiming it diverts funds from the NYPD and yields minimal results.
Police have expressed strong opposition to this initiative, questioning the necessity of therapy for these individuals. They argue that many of those working as disruptors have criminal histories and see this program as an unnecessary expenditure.
The city allocates nearly $100 million yearly for its crisis management system, which supports over 20 nonprofit organizations focused on community violence intervention, as highlighted in a recent report.
Interestingly, a group funded by the city recently employed an ex-convict, Mario Munro, who is accused of assaulting a man in the Bronx. He was arrested after a violent incident near the nonprofit’s office on May 5 and is now facing several charges, with bail set at $40,000 cash or $100,000 bond.
Supporters of the disruptor model argue that shared backgrounds allow these individuals to better connect with potential offenders, likely helping to defuse conflict before it escalates. They cite data indicating a decline in shootings and crime in several notorious areas.
“Violence disruptors play a key role in the current response to community conflicts,” a spokesperson for the Health Ministry conveyed, highlighting that the Strong Messenger program aims to enhance the emotional well-being of those involved in violence intervention, ultimately contributing to a safer city.
However, Michael Alcazar, a former NYPD detective and current professor, criticized the program as redundant, pointing out that law enforcement already offers assistance for violent situations and that this counseling seems like a redundant addition to the city’s budget.
Alcazar summarized his view, stating, “I think this is just additional funding. The police have already been addressing these issues, so it seems like they’re just adding more costs when they could be managing it efficiently.”
