Has Criminal Justice Reform Made Our Cities Unsafe? A Live Debate.

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Reform Pros & Cons
Criminal justice reform initiatives offer both promising benefits and significant risks. highlights the success of community-based violence intervention programs in cities like Detroit, where smart policing and federal funding have led to reduced homicide rates 1. However, she also points out the failures of the prison system, emphasizing that many low-level offenders fare better in treatment courts than in traditional incarceration 2. Bazelon argues, "Most low-level offenders do much better in treatment courts than in prison," underscoring the need for a balanced approach to reform.
Public Perception
Public perception of crime and safety has been significantly influenced by criminal justice reforms. notes a dramatic increase in public concern about crime, with 70% of Americans believing crime has risen in the past year 3. He attributes this perception to the reduction in policing and the rise in drug-related deaths, particularly in cities like San Francisco 4. Shellenberger argues, "You need more police officers," suggesting that increased policing could enhance public safety perceptions.