Part 7/12:
Many of these violent incidents are linked to underlying issues like homelessness, mental health crises, and substance abuse. Seattle’s homeless population is frequently cited as a primary factor; statistics indicate that a large percentage of homeless individuals suffer from severe mental illness, addiction, or physical ailments. These conditions, combined with a permissive legal environment, exacerbate street chaos and violence.
Public safety advocates argue that the city’s focus on restorative justice—intended to address the root causes of crime—has led to a situation where offenders are released swiftly, often repeating their crimes with little deterrence.