In 2000, a new violence prevention program hit the streets of Chicago. CeaseFire classified violence as a disease. The goal was to stop its spread, by intervening as closely and as immediately as possible in potentially violent altercations. Over the years this approach has provoked its share of praise and criticism.

Last year all state funding to the program was cut. Though the House has rallied to not only restore but double funding to the program, that measure remains stalled. But a new study funded by the U.S. Department of Justice evaluates Ceasefire. Earlier this morning, the study's lead researcher joined us to discuss their findings.

Professor Wesley Skogan of Northwestern University says that the program's novel approach is in part responsible for its success.