Staten Island is experiencing a surge in major crime this year, with an increase of 14% compared to the same period in the previous year, according to data from the NYPD. Burglaries have surged 81%, robberies have spiked 93%, and felony assaults have increased by 29%.
The 122nd Precinct in the borough’s Mid-Island reports a 54% rise in major crime, while the North Shore’s 120th Precinct has seen a 34% increase. Meanwhile, major crimes across the city have shown a 0.3% uptick, with the Bronx up 4%, Brooklyn down 2%, Manhattan up 0.4%, and Queens down 3%. One murder has been reported on the Island this year, the same as last year.
Experts attribute the increase to several factors, including the rise in “smokeshop” robberies. There have been four confirmed such robberies in the borough this year. However, major crime arrests have gone up by 60%, with robbery arrests up by 152%, felony assault collars up by 46%, grand larceny arrests up by 47%, and burglary collars up by 467%.
Staten Island’s district attorney, Michael McMahon, has called out “dumb laws disguised as ‘reform,’” blaming them for the surge in crime. The DA has urged lawmakers to hold accountable the “lunatic legislators” responsible for these laws, which he says have led to recidivism.
McMahon has also held a press conference to “denounce violence” and “demand school safety.” He met with business community leaders to discuss the surge in violent robberies and how to deal with recidivism.
Despite the rise in crime, the NYPD says major crime arrests on Staten Island are up. Michael Alcazar, an adjunct criminal justice professor at John Jay College and retired NYPD detective, said the borough’s conservative and cop-friendly reputation may have contributed to its residents’ surprise over the recent surge in crime. He added that “the DA is trying to get on top of the situation before it gets worse.”
»Major crime stats in Staten Island up by 14% in 2023«
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