Interrupting Violence: One Man's Journey to Heal the Streets and Redeem Himself

by Cobe Williams, Josh Gryniewicz

For over a decade, Cobe Williams has been a Violence Interrupter, a highly-trained conflict resolution expert working to stop the killing. Alongside thousands of workers across the country, many of whom he trained, Cobe intervenes in street conflicts before they result in murder. Interrupting Violence follows his evolution from a gang leader to a vanguard of a social justice movement. More than a memoir, Interrupting Violence spans three generations of trauma to portray a radically optimistic vision for addressing urban violence. Born into the notorious Black Disciples, Cobe rose through the ranks as a drug dealer, hustler, and shot-caller. His father, an influential gang member, was murdered before Cobe turned 11. Five men, his father's so-called friends, beat him to death in the lobby of a public housing project. Cobe spent years seeking answers to what happened that night. As he rose through the ranks—at one time, commanding over 100 men throughout the city while still in high school—a gang war turned his world upside down. Its escalation overshadowed his ascent. The war, stoked by police, who fanned the conflict's flames, would engulf friends and family, nearly costing him his life. Ultimately, Cobe would end up behind bars for attempted murder he didn't commit. Interrupting Violence follows Cobe as he undertakes this redemption journey, offering new hope for the nation's most violent communities. Cobe takes readers into an often misunderstood and misrepresented aspect of the Black experience in America. As the country wrestles with the inequities exposed by the coronavirus pandemic and the complex intersections of urban violence, racial issues, police brutality, and poverty in the aftermath of George Floyd's murder, this book provides an inspiring blueprint. Cobe's story demonstrates how the country can resolve the issues plaguing our inner cities.

328 pages, Hardcover

Published July 2, 2024

Reviews

[Travis Sharpe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Williams tells the real life story of how he ended up involved in gang life in Chicago, and later how he decided to make a change. While he once lived a life of violence and drugs, he now works to disrupt violence by working in the streets of Chicago and other major cities to convince those in gangs to choose an alternative to violence. Not only is this his job, but he has been highly effective at helping to reduce rates of violence.
Part of the story that is touching is how for many, gang life is the only alternative. Life is stacked against these young men from such an early age, and it's the only thing they know. The Gang is their family, the ones that have their back, and the ones they can always count on. And selling drugs is a good way to make money for those who may not have the opportunities to go to college or get higher paying jobs. It's a cruel world that leaves some feeling they have no choice.
However, Williams shows us everyone has a choice, of gang life or of violence. Williams is on the front lines helping to create peace in major cities like Chicago. He is someone we should honor for his work.

[Cassy Firkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to hear Cobe and Josh talk about this book before I read it which added to my enjoyment. I think I still would've given it 5 stars. This book gives me hope that there are ways we can reduce community violence with the approach they lay out in this book. It should be required reading for every elected official and policy maker.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interrupting Violence: One Man’s Journey to Heal the Streets and Redeem Himself by Cobe Williams and Josh Gryniewicz is both a memoir and a powerful call to action for change across American cities. The book chronicles the life of Cobe Williams, who was born into the gang Black Disciples and faced tremendous adversity from a young age. Despite the odds—losing his father to gang violence at age 10, dealing drugs in high school, and being wrongfully imprisoned for murder—Cobe managed to turn his life around. He became a violence interrupter, dedicating himself to saving the lives of young people on the brink of falling into the same destructive patterns.

This touching memoir is not only about personal growth but also serves as a cautionary tale and a rallying cry for those who believe they can make a difference. As a reader from a different background, I had only encountered gang-related content in movies. It was eye-opening to learn that such gangs exist in reality, with violence as pervasive as portrayed on screen. Coming from a psychology background, I recognize that these issues are deeply rooted in society and manifest globally in similar forms. Addressing violence and problematic behavior requires time and effort, much like the work Cobe and his colleagues are doing, as described in this book. Their stories will undoubtedly reach and inspire many. Reading about real-life events and the life trajectory of someone like Cobe is incredibly impressive. His transformation is a testament to the possibility of change and growth. His story teaches us that better times are always within reach if we remain determined and disciplined in our goals. The book is written in an engaging, conversational style, making readers feel as if they are hearing Cobe's story firsthand. The authors use slang and informal grammar to reflect authentic spoken language, effectively drawing readers into the narrative.

Interrupting Violence has broadened my perspective, exposing me to realities I might not have otherwise known. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a compelling read that transports them into the lives of others around the world. This is a story of resilience, redemption, and the enduring possibility of positive change.

[Kelly Jankowski · Rating 3 out of 5]

Incredible message, definitely powerful and taught me a lot about the working of Chicagos gangs, but there seemed to be odd intellectual blurbs in between some of the storytelling moments that would take me out of the read.

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

Made me feel a little more hopeful (and informed) about addressing violence. This book ran a bit long at times, but it definitely broadened my perspective.

[Tricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned a lot about the history of gang violence in Chicago. This book gives me hope for change and an end to gun violence. It identifies what’s needed for more peaceful cities and communities.

[Bill Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Required reading for everyone who cares about making the world a better place for all of us. Powerful stuff. Easy to read and appreciate.