DC Council Member Unveils "Secure DC" Plan To Combat Soaring Crime Rates - Will It Help?

Written By BlabberBuzz | Tuesday, 19 September 2023 05:15
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DC Council Member Unveils "Secure DC" Plan To Combat Soaring Crime Rates - Will It Help?

In a bid to tackle the escalating crime and violence in Washington D.C., District Council member Brooke Pinto has unveiled the "Secure DC Plan," as reported by 7 News.

This move comes as the District's council members reconvene following their July recess, during which an emergency crime bill was passed to address the city's rising crime rates. However, with the bill set to expire on October 18, the issue of crime remains a pressing concern.

The Secure DC Plan, introduced by Democratic Council member Pinto, comprises several bills and initiatives aimed at curbing the surge in violent crime. The plan incorporates seven new bills and proposes public hearings for previous legislation introduced by the Ward 2 council member earlier this year.

According to a press release, the plan outlines strategies for ensuring accountability, preventing crime and violence, supporting police and first responders, ending cycles of violence, and enhancing government coordination.

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"We are experiencing a crisis of violence in the District, and we must address the gaps in our legal system in order to prevent the proliferation of violence in our communities," Pinto stated in a press release. "Too many of our residents are afraid. My comprehensive package of legislative initiatives is a compilation of common-sense, targeted interventions that will urgently and practically improve safety for DC residents."

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The District is witnessing a surge in violence, with homicides set to exceed 200 for the third consecutive year. Fox 5 in Washington reports a 25% increase in homicides in August compared to the previous year. Additionally, the Associated Press reports that police recorded 140 carjackings in June, marking the highest monthly total in over five years.

In response to the escalating violence, Council member Trayon White urged Mayor Muriel Bowser in August to enlist the National Guard's assistance. White believes that the armed military personnel could support the police and help reduce crime, as reported by Fox 5 Washington D.C.

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Previously, council members proposed a comprehensive revision of the district's criminal code, which was vetoed by Bowser and subsequently overturned by Congress. The revised code, which President Joe Biden signed into law, received support from several congressional Democrats, according to the Associated Press.

To equip the police with the necessary tools to safeguard the community, Pinto has introduced the Prioritizing Public Safety Emergency Amendment Act. This act aims to prevent violence and ensure that offenders are held accountable. Pinto also hopes to enhance trust in and coordination with the police through police reform legislation, according to a press release.

The D.C. Council Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety, chaired by Pinto, will hold a public hearing for four bills on Monday. This hearing may include or amend the temporary emergency public safety bill, as reported by 7 News.