Part 4/9:
Despite Johnson's claims of progress, the data paints a more complex picture. Chicago has experienced alarming homicide rates, with over 970 murders recorded in 1974—a number he references to assert previous high points of violence. Recent figures, while showing some declines, remain troubling: the city reported 319 homicides in 2021, with over 269 shooting victims so far in the current year.
The city faces ongoing violence, especially during the pandemic surge, which saw unprecedented spikes in shootings and murders. Critics argue that defunding police and dismantling law enforcement infrastructure have exacerbated these issues, leading to a steady rise in violent crime.