NOLA crime….

This is becoming a political thread, but sadly this is the most important thread running on this forum and indirectly concerns the long-term viability of the franchise in New Orleans and the current reluctance of some to enter the city for any reason. Quick observations:

1. New Orleans has a toxic combination of inadequate resources with a high percentage of the population living near or below poverty levels, egregiously poor political leadership that at this moment has not taken seriously enough the threat that crime poses to the city, and a large criminal underclass. My guess is that about 400 or so are responsible for a high percentage of the violent crime in the city.

2. Until recently, I never hesitated to venture into the city (I now live in Mandeville). I still go, but watch where I go, how I drive, and where I buy gas.

3. There is no short-term answer to poverty. We are talking structural and cultural issues that occurred over generations, if not centuries. Summer-job and other programs may help some at-risk young people, and for that reason should be seriously considered. but they will not overall materially reduce the incidence of violent crime.

4. One of the great social scientists of the last 60 years is Edward Banfielf, who wrote the Unheavenly City. Even 40 years ago, the book was controversial. One of his arguments is that much criminal activity is committed by young people who live for the excitement of the moment and who lack the necessary cultural attitudes regarding educational achievement and deferring gratification for future success in our society.

5. Not all progressive cities are unsafe. I have a daughter living in, and last month I spent a good period of time in, Seattle. We wish we had the violent crime rate and economic vigor Seattle has. At the moment, I am sitting in downtown Houston, and for every major construction project I see in downtown Houston, there are 10 such projects in Seattle. However, Seattle does have a problem with theft because of progressive law-enforcement policies. As a result, nearly every pharmacy and grocery I visited has private security. But I felt very safe the entire time I was in Seattle.

6. I have never seen lack of security for a Saints game. However, I find the police presence inadequate for Pelicans games at night.