CHICAGO — Violent crime across the city has dropped 24% compared to this time last year, according to recent data, and one Chicago alderman says he’s finally seeing the changes he’s been fighting for.
Ald. David Moore (17th) said the shift is evident not just in the data but in everyday life throughout the city’s hardest-hit areas.
“I’m not getting the calls and even more than that, when I drive around at night … I don’t see that activity like I used to in some of those very hotspot areas,” Moore told The Center Square.
“I was just commending the District Commanders when we were in our meeting — just telling them, let’s continue to stay proactive on this.”
Crime Falls Sharply During Memorial Day Weekend
Chicago Police Department data shows a marked reduction in shootings and fatal incidents over Memorial Day weekend, a historically violent holiday period in the city:
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Only 24 people were shot, about half as many as in 2024.
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Fatal shootings dropped from 12 last year to 4 this year.
Moore, who earlier this year camped overnight on a violence-stricken Englewood street corner to raise awareness, believes the community is beginning to feel the impact of coordinated safety efforts.
“They are feeling a little bit safer,” he said. “Memorial Day was the real test. It was nicer than I thought it was going to be.”
Youth Programming, Community Investment Credited
The alderman pointed to increased recreational opportunities and summer programs as another major reason for the drop in violence.
“Every tool the administration put in — making sure their kids had things to do — if they keep doing those things through the hotter days, as we get into June and July, I think we’ll be OK,” Moore said.
Mayor Brandon Johnson’s violence intervention strategy emphasizes community outreach and youth investment, a cornerstone of his public safety platform.
Praise for CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling
While community programs have been widely celebrated, Moore reserved his highest praise for the Chicago Police Department’s leadership.
“Let me tell you, 90% of it is due to [Police Superintendent] Larry Snelling, but you have to give the mayor credit because he chose Larry Snelling at the request of the community,” Moore said.
Snelling, a longtime veteran of the department, has gained support from both rank-and-file officers and community members for his leadership style.
“When you hear and talk to the rank and file, this is a commander that understands all. This is a commander who all of them respect and they work hard for,” Moore added.
“The tools that he put in place to hold accountability to his commanders and to his sergeants — it’s unmatched.”
Federal Grant Cuts Raise Concerns
The positive momentum comes as federal safety grants are being reduced nationwide. The U.S. Department of Justice recently cut community program funding by more than $800 million, raising questions about how local initiatives will continue operating at current levels.
Despite this, city officials remain hopeful that local groups will maintain resources to provide outreach and intervention, especially as summer approaches.
Have you noticed a difference in your neighborhood this year? What else can be done to reduce crime in Chicago? Drop your thoughts in the comments on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
