Violent crime in New York has climbed steadily since the 1960's. Most recently, violent crime surged during the second half of the 1980's as illicit drug markets gained a stronghold in many urban areas. Although violent crime has declined slightly since peaking in 1990, it remains a very serious problem. As of 1992, New York was second in the Nation in both the number and rate of violent crime. Violent street crime is largely an urban phenomenon in New York. Of all violent crimes reported in recent years, about 90 percent occur in the State's nine largest urban areas. In 1992, almost 80 percent of all violent crimes were reported in New York City where only 41 percent of the State population resides. Violent crime and substance abuse are closely related, and alcohol is the substance most often linked to violent behavior. Research indicates that alcohol use by offenders or victims occurs in over half of all violent crimes. In New York City and Buffalo, over 40 percent of homicide victims had alcohol in their systems at the time of death. Disputes over drug profits have been responsible for a large number of homicides in recent years. Further, drug abuse prompts some offenders to engage in robbery to support their habits. Since 1987, the percentage of gun-related homicides has climbed steadily each year. The rate of arrest for violent offenses is highest among males, nonwhites, and young people. Current and proposed initiatives to prevent and reduce violent crime in New York State are described. An overview of State violence prevention efforts in the areas of law enforcement, education, youth services, health care, and social services is provided. The report also considers penalties for violent offenses, the identification and prosecution of violent offenders, and juvenile violence and violence in the schools. Specific violence prevention initiatives are described as they relate to family violence, sex offending, and drug abuse. 16 endnotes, 4 tables, and 12 figures