When the crime statistics were released earlier this month, we heard nothing from our fearless leader in the mayor’s office regarding Troy. If you remember, Democratic city council candidates were relentlessly pummeled during last year’s campaign by the Republican city council candidates, genuflected to the god of Harry who, since elected, had reduced crime in Troy.
Lo and behold, crime in Troy in 2005 is up, with both violent and property crimes increasing over 2004 levels. According to the FBI statistics, which can be found at http://www.fbi.gov/ucr/05cius/data/table_06.html, crime increased by 2% between 2004 and 2005. Specifically, murder, assaults, larceny/thefts, and motor vehicle thefts all rose between 2004 and 2005. More worrisome, however, is that the rate of crime increased by over 3%. The number of crimes increased while the population in the City of Troy decreased. Not a good combination when talking about the quality of life in Troy, which Harry continues to tell us is one of his top priorities for the City of Troy.
While the statistics have shown an increase, they do not represent the true nature of crime in Troy. Throughout the City, there have been numerous incidences of vehicle damage, such as tires slashed, windows broken, or damaged side mirrors. Multiple vehicles but one incident both under counts the crime and under estimates the true financial damage to the taxpayers of Troy.Let’s review recent or not so recent history. Harry claimed that the Guardian Angels were not needed because crime was not a problem and under control. A killer went free because City detectives violated his rights. And there are still questions about the residency of a number of police patrolling this City. Harry, campaign on this next year.
Politicians tell us what we want to hear. Leaders tell us what we need to hear.
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