Chicago City Wire

In a move that has raised concerns within the city, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's latest budget proposal reveals a significant reduction in funding for the police department, sparking worries about the city's ability to maintain adequate law enforcement staffing levels.

Critics argue that the allocated budget for police is insufficient to address the city's needs. Johnson's budget outlines plans to hire just over 500 officers in the coming year, a number that many fear will not be enough to offset attrition and effectively address rising public safety concerns.

In his budget for the year 2024, Mayor Johnson has recommended a hiring target of only 510 police officers, each with a salary of $57,444. This marks a stark contrast to the previous year, 2023, when recommendations were for more than twice that number, with 1,221 officers and a pay rate of $56,040 per officer.

The proposed reduction in police staffing and funding has raised questions about the city's ability to maintain public safety standards in the face of ongoing challenges. Critics argue that a diminishing police force could have far-reaching implications for crime prevention and response, potentially impacting the safety and well-being of Chicago residents.

Johnson, a BLM supporter, previously proposed to defund the city’s police force, something he vehemently denied during the campaign despite video of direct comments on the matter.

As Cook County Commissioner for the 1st District in 2020 Johnson advocated for the Justice for Black Lives resolution which he introduced.

“This resolution is the first step in a series of measures designed to bring justice, equity and equal protection under the law in the second largest county in the nation,” Johnson said in a statement at the time.

The resolution stated that Cook County “shall redirect money from the failed and racist systems of policing, criminalization, and incarceration that have not kept our communities safe, and will instead invest that money in public services not administered by law enforcement.”

However, he walked back that stance in the campaign.

In an interview in Block Club Chicago's The Ballot Live series prior to the election, Johnson said he intended to redirect city resources toward a more comprehensive approach to public safety.

Johnson discussed his position on policing, public safety, and other policy matters.

Former Chicago Public Schools CEO Paul Vallas, Johnson’s opponent at the time, advocated for increased police funding and the hiring of more officers.

Johnson's past statements regarding reducing police funding had been the subject of debate during the campaign.

Despite a significant surge in crime in Chicago, including a sharp increase in the number of homicides, which have reached levels not witnessed since 1994, Johnson's decision to reduce police funding has raised eyebrows.

In 2022, Cook County recorded a staggering 927 homicides, with 740 occurring within the city limits of Chicago.

Additionally, last year saw an alarming spike in various crimes, with burglaries increasing by 33 percent, thefts surging by 61 percent, and auto thefts rising by 45 percent.

Data indicates a surge in crime during Johnson’s first 90 days in office compared to previous administrations.

Figures reported by Wirepoints reveal an increase in shootings, murders, and motor vehicle thefts, with major crimes in the city through July standing 34% higher than in 2022, casting doubt on Johnson's approach to crime and public safety as critics argue that leadership and action are needed.

Johnson also came under scrutiny for a 38% spike in crime during his first month in office, according to the Washington Examiner.

While this surge in criminal activity was viewed in the context of Chicago's long-standing crime issues, critics argue that the mayor's priorities should include a more comprehensive approach to addressing the crime wave, particularly in light of his past support for police defunding and a perceived lack of focus on public safety in his social media and public statements.

Theft of vehicles surged by 153%, cases of aggravated battery increased by 17%, burglaries saw a 12% rise, and there was a 5% uptick in shootings. The situation escalated to the point where the Chicago Police Department recently issued a "community alert," urging residents to remain vigilant regarding their surroundings and be on constant alert for suspicious activity when entering or exiting vehicles.