CHICAGO — A heated warning from a longtime Chicago alderman is reigniting debate over the city’s escalating violence and how leadership is addressing public safety. Chicago, once again, led the nation in homicides in 2024, prompting 41st Ward Alderman Anthony Napolitano to blast local leaders for what he described as a dangerous shift in priorities.
Chicago Leads U.S. in Homicides for 13th Straight Year
In 2024, the city recorded 573 homicides, surpassing every other major U.S. city. That figure marks the 13th consecutive year Chicago has held this grim title. According to Wirepoints, the homicide rate per 100,000 residents in Chicago was five times higher than New York’s and three times higher than Los Angeles’.
‘They Want to Steal the Police Budget’
Napolitano didn’t hold back when speaking to Fox News Digital, accusing city administrations of deliberately weakening the police force.
“They’re ignoring the crime rate because their objective is to demonize the police department,” Napolitano said. “Their goal is to steal the police budget.”
He argues that the push to divert funds from the Chicago Police Department to other social programs is backfiring — and leaving communities vulnerable.
INVEST South/West Called a Failure
One major city initiative, INVEST South/West, launched in 2019 with $250 million in public funds, was designed to attract investment in underserved neighborhoods. But Napolitano called it an “epic fail”, saying the strategy is too narrow.
“Why don’t we make the entire city safe by investing in our police force?” he asked. “That way, investors want to come to all of Chicago, not just specific neighborhoods.”
Migrant Spending, Sanctuary Status Also Under Fire
The alderman also blasted city leadership for continuing to fund migrant programs, even amid backlash. In recent months, the City Council approved $70 million in taxpayer money for migrant care — a move Napolitano believes was politically motivated and misaligned with public needs.
“We’re getting absolutely nothing from the federal government because we’re remaining a sanctuary city,” he said. “I was adamantly against that during my 10 years in office.”
Police Shortages Affect Low-Crime Areas, Too
Napolitano added that communities like his own, where crime is relatively low, are suffering indirectly.
Because police are being pulled from safe neighborhoods to respond to shootings and violence in higher-risk areas, even nonviolent crimes like burglaries are receiving less attention.
“It’s an evolution of just pure bull—- by these people,” he said. “The last two administrations are the worst this city has ever seen.”
Do you think Chicago’s crime response should prioritize police funding, or focus more on long-term community investment? Let us know your thoughts at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
