Chicago residents upset over increased crime, longer wait times for police, increased fear, feeling unsafe
City residents gathered at Truman College for a Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) meeting held on Thursday night. The meeting provided a platform for residents to express their views and concerns on various public safety issues affecting the city.
One of the central topics discussed was police funding and city spending, particularly in light of the upcoming City Council vote on the city's budget. Chicago resident Patrick McNeil emphasized the importance of maintaining an adequate number of police officers patrolling the streets to ensure shorter response times for 911 calls. Longer response times and reduced police presence are concerns that many residents share.
Anthony Driver Jr., President of the CCPSA, addressed the rising number of robberies in the city, which has become a significant cause for concern. "We've all seen in the news, folks, robberies have skyrocketed and took a turn for the worse," Driver stated. He also highlighted the personal experience of being a victim earlier in the year, underscoring the heightened risks faced by Chicagoans.
In addition to discussions about general public safety, the meeting also touched on the safety of workers, including ride-share and food delivery drivers, as well as postal workers. Elise Foster, President of the National Association of Letter Carriers Chicago (NALCC), expressed concern for postal workers who have faced more than 100 robberies or assaults while on the job in Chicago since August 2022.
"We should not have to work in fear," Foster asserted, calling for assistance from various authorities, including CPD commanders and the postal inspector in charge, to address safety concerns.
The meeting at Truman College highlighted the pressing need for comprehensive discussions on public safety, police funding, and the safety of workers in Chicago as the city grapples with these critical issues.
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