Deval Patrick is going to head a new anti-crime council...

Gov. Deval Patrick is appointing a new blue ribbon commission to tackle gun and gang-related violence across the state.

The council will focus on the challenges facing crime victims, social service providers and state law enforcement organizations.

Patrick said he also wants the panel to come up with recommendations, including ways to intercept gun and drug trafficking and new ideas for early intervention and prevention.

"Addressing violent crime requires a coordinated and comprehensive approach in order to provide and ensure stability in our communities," Patrick said in a statement.

Patrick will head up the commission himself.