The Bronx is facing a tough time with crime.  NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch recently spoke out about the situation.  She highlighted the importance of addressing quality-of-life crimes.  These are the little things that can make people feel unsafe, like aggressive begging and open drug use.  She said that ignoring these issues can lead to bigger problems.  The NYPD is now creating a new division to tackle these issues.

        The Bronx has seen a huge increase in 311 calls for help.  This means more people are feeling unsafe and reaching out for assistance.  The calls have nearly doubled in the past six years.  This shows that people are concerned and need help.  The NYPD is listening and taking action.

        Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark has a different view.  She focuses on what she calls the "root causes" of crime, like poverty.  But the data tells a different story.  The Bronx has seen a 140% increase in 311 complaints since 2018.  The DA's office often declines to prosecute many cases, including a fifth of violent felony offenses.  This means that many crimes go unpunished.  Crime has been rising in the Bronx since 2019.  It's clear that something needs to change.

        The Bronx is a diverse place with many challenges.  Poverty is a real issue, but it's not the only factor.  The way crimes are handled matters a lot.  When crimes go unpunished, it can make people feel less safe.  This can lead to more crime.  It's a cycle that needs to be broken.

        The NYPD is taking steps to address these issues.  They are creating a new division to focus on quality-of-life crimes.  This is a positive step.  It shows that the NYPD is listening to the community and taking action.  The Bronx deserves a safe and thriving community.  It's time to take action and make a change.

COMMISSIONER JESSICA TISCH

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