Tackling crime in Philadelphia

Guests: Richard Ross, Brian Lentz, Jerry Ratcliffe, Rasheed Smith

There is an encouraging trend throughout the U.S. — crime is decreasing. That also seems to be the case in large cities, including Philadelphia, where most major crimes are at an all-time low. Explanations include a demographic change — there are fewer people in the 18-29 age group — and improved policing and security strategies. In Philadelphia, law enforcement officials have been collaborating on the implementation of several innovative programs to reduce crime. They include increased use of foot patrols, greater reliance on real-time data to pinpoint crime “hot spots” and an overall approach to prevention vs. arrests. At the same time, as part of its Gun Violence Task Force, the Philadelphia District Attorney’s office has implemented GunStat which identifies the most violent offenders in small target areas of the City. We’ll talk about these strategies and others and their effectiveness in battling crime with First Deputy Commissioner RICHARD ROSS of the Philadelphia Police Department, JERRY RATCLIFFE from Temple University,  BRYAN LENTZ, head of the Office of the District Attorney’s Gun Violence Task Force of the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office and RASHEED SMITH who works with Philadelphia CeaseFire.