Greater LA
Digging into crime: Perception, reality, politics
LA city officials are responding to a rise in violent crime, and news headlines are painting a dramatic picture. But what are the real numbers versus public perception, and how does that play into the politics of crime?
By Steve Chiotakis • • 25m ListenLA city officials are responding to a rise in violent crime, and news headlines are painting a dramatic picture. But what are the real numbers versus public perception, and how does that play into the politics of crime?
LA District Attorney George Gascón is facing a lot of resistance and a second recall attempt. There’s no evidence that his policies are tied to any rise in crime, but if some voters think that’s the truth, the recall will succeed, says The New York Times’ Jennifer Medina.
In this episode
2 storiesViolent crime is up in LA. Some tough-on-crime advocates blame Gascón
When George Gascón was sworn in as LA’s district attorney last December, he vowed an end to seeking the death penalty or life without parole, an end to prosecution of minors as adults, an end to cash bail, and other significant reforms.
Read the story12 minLA officials lean into view that crime’s up. Does data support it?
LA city officials are responding to a rise in violent crime, and news headlines are painting a dramatic picture. But what are the real numbers versus public perception, and how does that play into the politics of crime?
Read the story15 min
