Part 8/11:
Public Safety: The Money Pit and Law Enforcement Failures
Harrell’s budget also seeks additional revenue through a proposed 0.1% sales tax hike dedicated to public safety, hoping to reverse recent police funding cuts. However, law enforcement's capacity is hamstrung by a revolving door of arrests, weak judicial response, and perceived lack of accountability. Video footage of a suspect jumping a bridge in a stolen car symbolizes the city’s failure to enforce the law.
The police have attempted to mitigate street chaos by closing alleys and installing fences, but critics contend this merely displaces crime rather than eliminates it. Moreover, increased patrols and new park rangers are touted, but many doubt these measures will make a significant difference given the city’s systemic issues.