A music video to help convey anti-violence messages to young people, a year after riots and disorder happened across the country, has been commissioned by Thames Valley Police. The internet video campaign was posted on YouTube, two months ago and already has thousands of views. Visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpLeEis7D_8
In an attempt to engage with young people, through, targetted peer-to-peer communication, Thames Valley Police has been working with volunteers to release the thought-provoking rap single, ‘An Eye for an Eye.’
Ch Insp Colin Seaton said: “During the riots that happened across the country last year, we had some pockets of disorder in the Thames Valley area, including some in High Wycombe.
“Since then, we have also had some serious, high profile crimes happen in the town, including a shooting where young people were involved.
“In order to prevent further escalation, we decided we needed to do everything possible to really engage with the young people in our community.
“We are working closely with our partners, including the local authority and local schools, to educate and inform both young people and relevant adults. We also wanted to communicate with any potential gang members directly through this rap video.
“Five rappers and two producers, who all volunteered their time for free, used their skills and expertise to help us portray our thoughts and messages.
“A police instigated rap perhaps isn’t the most attractive proposition for a young person so until now we have let it circulate locally online, through social media channels and by word-of-mouth.
“The music video aims to encourage people to think about their actions and understand the consequences of their behaviour before it is too late. Any money raised from downloads will be going towards the Ben Kinsella knife crime charity and local community projects.”
DJ Lomotes who produced the track, says: “The track features hotly tipped grime artists Lola Coca, Styler, Sicx, Dimples and Treasure, and aims to put an end to serious youth violence.
“Centering on the notion that ‘An eye for an eye makes the world go blind’, the track not only highlights the never-ending cycle of consequences, retaliation and revenge crimes has but also hopes to inspire today’s youth with into making better life choices.
“From the outset, I didn’t just want to be another person talking about the problem of gang-related crime. I actually wanted help make a difference and I believe this single has the capability to do just that.”
‘An Eye for an Eye’ is available to download from iTunes and Amazon now and the video can be found on YouTube.
