Despite enhanced security, Chicago has witnessed a spike in shootings during the Democratic National Convention, with dozens injured and several killed. The city also faces an ongoing presence of illegal migrants and potential gang activity.
In the midst of the high-profile Democratic National Convention (DNC), Chicago has been grappling with an alarming surge in violent crime. Despite heightened security measures, the city has seen at least 30 people shot during the first three days of the event.
Chicago Crime Surge Marrs DNC Amidst Heavy Security
The uptick in crime has cast a shadow over the festivities, with police reporting multiple shootings and homicides each day. On Wednesday, a 25-year-old delegate from Texas was robbed at gunpoint, while 10 others were shot and one stabbed.
The previous day, Tuesday, saw 12 shooting victims, including one fatality. On Monday, as the DNC kicked off, police responded to eight shootings and four murders.
Chicago Crime Surge Marrs DNC Amidst Heavy Security
"As of now, week to day, that is double the number of murders of New York City, and Chicago has less than a third of New York's population," said Paul Mauro, a retired NYPD inspector.
In addition to the shootings, Chicago has also been experiencing an increased presence of migrants in the city center. Law enforcement sources have identified several individuals in the area as potential gang members, although authorities anticipate them to remain relatively quiet during the DNC.
Chicago Crime Surge Marrs DNC Amidst Heavy Security
Migrants have been seeking odd jobs and selling candy for cash near the convention center, a tactic commonly used to generate income in larger cities. However, authorities note that this activity is often associated with migrant gang members, who may be using the women and children to engage in criminal activities.
Despite efforts by city officials to clear out homeless encampments before the convention, crime has remained a persistent issue. Over the weekend, 26 shootings left 30 victims injured, including five fatalities.
Chicago Crime Surge Marrs DNC Amidst Heavy Security
"Our officers are out there. They're out there. They're highly visible. And we have officers not only along the corridors downtown, in and around the venues of the Democratic National Convention, but also in our neighborhoods to continue to protect our people who are living in areas that are the most vulnerable," said Chicago Police Department Superintendent Larry Snelling.
The Chicago Tribune recently reported an increase in migrant arrests, primarily for nonviolent crimes such as theft. However, the presence of suspected gang members among the migrant population remains a concern.
The surge in crime poses a significant challenge for the Chicago Police Department and underscores the city's ongoing struggles with violence. As the DNC continues, authorities face the task of maintaining order while addressing the underlying factors contributing to the city's crime problem.
