Chicago City Wire

A recent analysis from the Illinois Policy Institute revealed concerning trends in Chicago's crime landscape. The report highlighted a significant increase in violent crimes over the past decade coupled with a notable decrease in arrest rates.

According to Hilary Gowins, senior vice president at the Illinois Policy Institute, the surge in violent crime in Chicago is alarming, with public safety continuing to be a top concern for residents. Gowins emphasized the importance of understanding the scope of the crime problem, especially as the number of violent crimes rises across various neighborhoods in the city.

The analysis pointed out that violent crime in Chicago has increased by 18% since 2013, while the number of arrests has declined by 33%. In 2023, the arrest rate hit a decade-low, with only 10.8% of violent crimes resulting in an arrest, reflecting a 43% decrease in arrests over the past ten years.

Gowins stressed the significance of addressing the declining arrest rates, stating, "All crime is bad. Violent crime is worse. The city’s well-being isn’t just measured in the total number of crimes – the arrest rate also matters." She urged city leaders to make substantial investments in public safety to restore confidence and ensure the safety of Chicagoans.

Despite the escalating crime rates, efforts to reduce police resources have been observed in Chicago. Mayor Brandon Johnson's recent budget cuts eliminated 833 street-cop vacancies, contrary to the strong public sentiment for a larger police force. Additionally, the Chicago Board of Education decided to remove all police officers from Chicago Public Schools, despite some schools expressing a desire to retain officers.

The data underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to address the rising violent crime and declining arrest rates in Chicago. Residents and policymakers alike are called upon to prioritize public safety and work towards creating a safer environment for all members of the community.