INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – The Indianapolis mayor and other leaders say they plan to beef up social services and work for harsher penalties for gun crimes as part of a plan to curb violence in the city.

Officials said Wednesday the plan is to put young black men on a better path before they turn to crime. Indianapolis had more than 25 homicides before the end of February.

Pastor Charles Ellis says the city must work to stop “black-on-black violence,” but that the problem is society wide.

Mayor Greg Ballard says help is available, but many in need don't know about it. The new push is aimed largely at bringing attention to those social services.

Public safety director Troy Riggs says the city is also asking state legislators for stricter gun crimes penalties.