DA Hayden Brings Together Youth, Law Enforcement for Basketball Tourney

BOSTON, June 27, 2022—The Suffolk County District Attorney's Office's Basketball for Peace tournament returns on Tuesday, bringing together Suffolk County youth, law enforcement officials and prosecutors for a day of fun and games, District Attorney Kevin Hayden announced.

The tournament tips off on Tuesday at the UMass Boston Clark Athletic Center. Dozens of youth aged 12 through 15 will compete on the court. In addition to Suffolk prosecutors, victim witness advocates and other members of the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, community partners from across the county will be in attendance.

Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden will directly address attendees. He will encourage youth to reject gang violence and instead make safe choices that will make a positive impact on themselves and their communities.

“Our youth are our future, and its important that they have the support, connections and opportunities to achieve success. This tournament is one way that my office connects with our young people and provides opportunities for positive activities that help keep kids on track. This is also a chance for them to build positive relationships with adults in the community – including with prosecutors, police and community partners – who can provide guidance and mentorship,” Hayden said. “I’m thrilled to host this tournament and to give these kids a day of safe and healthy fun.”

Players will represent Associacao Cabo Verdiano de Basquetbol (ACVB), Basketball Life Athletics (BLA) Mattapan, Condon Community Center, Inner City Weightlifting, Mass Lady Rivals, One Love Sports, Project RIGHT Inc., Revere Police Athletic League, Shelburne Community Center, Showstoppers and Teach 1 Basketball.

Basketball for Peace will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 100 Morrissey Boulevard in Dorchester. Media are invited to attend.

 James Borghesani, Chief of Communications

Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden’s office serves the communities of Boston, Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop, Mass. The office handles over 20,000 cases a year. More than 160 attorneys in the office practice in nine district and municipal courts, Suffolk Superior Court, the Massachusetts Appeals Court, the Supreme Judicial Court, and the Boston Juvenile Courts. The office employs some 300 people and offers a wide range of services and programs to serve anyone who comes in contact with the criminal legal system. This office is committed to educating the public about the services we provide, our commitment to crime prevention, and our dedication to keeping the residents of Suffolk County safe.