Crime is down in Chicago

I know it’s hard to believe but overall crime is down across the city.

I was watching the news the other night and Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy was talking about how Chicago has experienced a decline in overall crime. I thought that broadcasting that information was a great idea; progress is necessary to mention. If only that could be done on a regular basis so that more people recognize it. He said that homicides and shootings are down seven percent and overall crime is down 14 percent. Chicago has not had these numbers since 1963.

I have noticed a more involved police force. Police officers are riding bikes through the rough neighborhoods which allow them to be more responsive to local crime activity. Also at certain times of the day, officers stand on the busy corners and monitor the individuals who are standing around. At night police cars sit on just about every block and watch the streets. I feel more protected when I see police in the community. I personally feel that having a heavy and constant presence of police is a good idea. I even hear residents in the community praising the police as they walk by and I think that the Police are binding bonds.

Everybody is so focused on the few negative incidences involving police that people are forgetting the danger that police have to deal with on an everyday basis. They deal with all types of people: violent, intoxicated, mentally ill, gang members and drug dealers. I think people need to cut them some slack. I hope Chicago can improve on these numbers. Keep your fingers crossed.

Matthew Maggit is a sophomore in accounting in the College of Business Administration. Matthew decided to come to UIC because of the business program’s reputation and because  he wanted to study at a campus with a diverse atmosphere. He likes how close the campus is downtown Chicago and the Willis Tower. In his free time, he loves to surround myself with loved ones, and he enjoys sports and going to the gym.