Part 4/8:
The lack of strict consequences for criminal behavior poses a significant barrier to combating the increasing violence. Many offenses—including those committed by minors—are increasingly treated as misdemeanors, resulting in minimal repercussions. A disheartening reality reveals that habitual offenders often cycle through the system without facing serious charges, emboldening them to commit further crimes. Statistics also show instances of criminals, even those with dozens of prior arrests, returning to the streets in mere minutes post-arrest, leaving communities vulnerable.