Boston is facing a serious problem with crime. Violent crimes, including homicides, are on the rise - homicides have doubled since 1999, and shootings are up 85% over 2003 numbers. While the Menino administration claims crime is down, they neglect to mention that a fall in car theft and other non-violent crimes has led to the overall drop - while at the same time, more and more violence is occurring on our streets. I believe the city of Boston must take strong action to reduce violent crimes and make our streets safer in all of our neighborhoods.

As Mayor, I would:

Add 500 More Police to the Police Department

Our police department is clearly understaffed. Rising street crime calls for increased police patrols - we need more police on the streets to keep our city safe. A city ordinance calls for 2500 police. Boston has not complied with this law in many years - as Mayor, I will add 500 more police over the course of my first term to bring us into compliance with that ordinance.

Reinstate our Community Policing Program

In the past, Boston has been nationally recognized for its Community Policing program. In recent years, due to lower staffing levels, this reputation has lapsed. As Mayor, I will once again bring national prominence to our Community Policing program.

Devote More Resources to Solving Unresolved Homicides

Our homicide clearance rate is one of the lowest in the nation. I will bring special focus to the most egregious unsolved murders in our city, and I will bring justice for the families who have lost loved ones to violence. I will also make professional and technical training for our police force a priority.

Call for Consolidation of all Police Units Under the Boston Police Department

By consolidating all police units under the BPD, we can maximize our resources
and better serve the city.

Increase Police Presence in Boston Public Housing
We need a massive infusion of resources into our public housing to address significant substance abuse, public safety, and quality of life issues.