An extensive literature search at the national level revealed no clear direction for addressing the illegal gun problem and no model program Baltimore could adapt. Baltimore police data showed no significant increases in the number of violent crimes involving firearms, but did reveal a gradual increase in the percentage of total violent crimes in which a firearm was involved. The Task Force conducted its own study of 200 gun-related criminal cases to determine factors affecting the outcome of such cases. Based on this research, it concluded that a concerted effort to strengthen application of existing law and penalties for illegal gun offenses was needed. Task Force recommendations address several areas, including a police tracking system for arrests involving firearms, increased attention to community protection by pretrial release services and judges in decisions affecting illegal gun offenders, a specialized prosecution unit for repeat gun violators, and more stringent penalties in all cases involving a conviction or guilty plea for illegal gun violation. The report also suggests revisions to strengthen existing laws, a public education campaign, improvements in school security, and restraints on media violence. Tables.