Mayor Adams and Commissioner Tisch Address Reduction in Crime
Mayor Adams and newly appointed Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch are making headlines this week as they discuss the reduction in crime rates in New York City in 2024 compared to the previous year. While this news may seem promising at first glance, a deeper dive into the data paints a more complex picture of the city’s crime landscape.
The Reality of Crime Trends in New York City
For those who have called New York City home for several years, the statistics tell a different story. Since 2019, major crimes have seen a significant spike, with murder up almost 20%, robbery up 25%, felony assault up 43%, burglary up 22%, and auto theft skyrocketing by a staggering 163%. In total, there were nearly 29,000 more crime victims in 2024 compared to 2019.
One of the contributing factors to this surge in crime has been the bail reform laws implemented in 2019, which led to the release of over 2,000 career criminals from city jails in a short span. This influx of individuals back into the community coincided with a historic rise in crime rates after almost three decades of steady decline.
The Call for Action
Commissioner Tisch, in a recent column in The Post, has urged Albany to reconsider the laws that have fueled the increase in crime. She highlights the impact of bail reform on recidivism rates, emphasizing the need for judges to have the authority to detain dangerous defendants and set appropriate bail when necessary.
Tisch advocates for greater transparency in reporting crime data, suggesting that the NYPD’s CompStat reports compare current crime numbers with those from before the bail reforms to provide a clearer picture of the situation. She also proposes publishing statistics on the criminal backgrounds of individuals housed on Rikers Island, raising awareness of potential risks associated with their release.
Championing Accountability and Transparency
As the city grapples with rising crime rates and the impact of policy decisions on public safety, Mayor Adams and Commissioner Tisch have a crucial role to play in holding policymakers accountable and advocating for data-driven solutions. By shedding light on the realities of crime trends and calling for evidence-based interventions, they aim to empower the public to demand change and ensure the safety of all New Yorkers.
In the words of distinguished economist Thomas Sowell, “It is usually futile to try to talk facts and analysis to people who are enjoying a sense of moral superiority in their ignorance.” However, with a commitment to transparency, accountability, and evidence-based policymaking, there is hope for a safer and more just New York City.
As a former resident of Queens and a long-serving member of the District Attorney’s Office, I have seen firsthand the devastating impact of crime on our communities. It is imperative that we come together as a city to address the root causes of violence, support effective law enforcement strategies, and prioritize the safety and well-being of all residents. Let us stand united in our pursuit of justice and security for every New Yorker.
