Monday, July 25, 2005

Why is Memphis the 2nd most dangerous Metro area in the US?

I believe we live in such a dangerous environment because of the failed policies of law enforcement and other leaders in this community. Show me one leader with a vision and/or a passion for their job beyond pulling down a fat check. What is their plan of attack on the problems that are causing people to flee Shelby County like rats leaving a sinking ship? You are right, they don't have one. Raise your taxes, then lie to you while looking you square in the eyes, saying it's not a tax increase. If it's not a tax increase, then just send the same amount of money you sent last year when the tax bill comes due. Our good county mayor just doesn't want to admit that he doesn't have any plans other than tax and spend. That's the same model our previous mayor had. Now we're billions in debt.

We have elected people who can talk the talk, but can't walk the walk. Sheriff Luttrell says we can't arrest our way out of the crime problem. Isn't that how they cleaned up New York City under Rudy Guiliani? I think it's called Zero Tolerance, or what I call the "hot plate" approach to law enforcement. Here in Memphis we have maximum tolerance and zero prisoner retention, which is why it is so dangerous to live here! He is also concerned about overcrowding the jail, which is at the heart of the problem in our community. If the criminals aren't behind bars, where are they? Yep, they are wreaking havoc on the community. If we have to erect tent cities, we need to incarcerate the violent criminals and keep them there. If criminals aren't doing time, they're doing crime! Strict enforcement of curfew laws on juveniles in gang infested areas could also have an immediate impact.


John
www.johnharveysheriff.com