The fight against crime is an age-old problem, but a recent spike in homicide, violent crime and gun violence in concentrated areas has many arguing that the “defund the police” movement is putting vast numbers of Americans at risk.

Thomas Abt, Senior Fellow at the Council on Criminal Justice and expert in violence reduction, says people need to recognize that defunding the police is not about politics, it’s about providing practical support services.

“Of course you need cops, but you need other services and other partners too,” Abt says.

Former police officer Aaron Taylor says, “Defund everything that has nothing to do with police work and let cops be cops.”

In January 2022, the Council on Criminal Justice published Saving Lives: Ten Essential Actions Cities Can Take to Reduce Violence Now. Follow the link to read more about how government and community leaders can avoid polarizing political debates and promote peace and safety in their communities.

This episode of Dr. Phil, ‘“Danger on My Doorstep': America’s Safety Crisis,” airs Wednesday. Check your local listing to find out where to watch.

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