(CSU) ROCKFORD, Ill. With nearly 2,000 violent crimes reported in the first ten months of 2021, there was a three percent rise in violent crime occurrences compared to the same time in 2020. Increased funding, according to Reps. Maurice West and Dave Vella, as well as State Senator Steve Stadelman, is the solution.
The three announced on Friday that Rockford would be one of 10 communities to share a $50 million pot of money. Reimagine Public Safety Act provided the funds. Vella, West, and Stadelman all say they’ll be keeping a careful eye on how the money is used and what kind of progress it can make.
“This is an issue that we all have to deal with,” Stadelman adds, “no matter which side of town you’re on.” When it comes to reporting crime scenes, you never know what may have happened in terms of police reporting and assistance or just being engaged. It will need a coordinated effort from all members of the community. If we’re going to handle this problem, we need the public’s help.”
“This is a city-wide issue, not simply one on the West Side of Rockford,” West claims. If the city of Rockford, not just one side, is to prosper, we must come together as a community.
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Also, Read $32M And Counting: The Cost of Cleaner, More Detailed Crime Stats in Florida
