Two Tennessee cities are receiving funds to aid in decreasing violent crime, says the Justice Department. Memphis and Jackson are among the 12 cities across the country selected for the aid.

The department said Tuesday it will help local authorities study crime patterns and develop plans to reduce violence. Attorney General Jeff Sessions says officials will find “data-driven, evidence-based strategies” that can be measured over time.

The 12 cities were chosen because they have higher-than-average rates of violence and showed receptiveness to receiving assistance.

Sessions says helping cities combat violence is a top priority for the Justice Department.