New York City Mayor Eric Adams responded to alarming polling data that revealed residents' deep concerns about crime in the city.
He placed blame on the media for their reporting on the issue, suggesting that it plays with the psyche of their viewers and readers.
The New York Post recently published a series of statistics and reactions from Mayor Adams, highlighting the findings of a recent Siena College poll.
The poll showed that a significant majority of New York state residents, about 61%, are either very or somewhat concerned about becoming victims of crime. In the city itself, this number rises to 70%, with 30% expressing very worried and 40% expressing somewhat worried sentiments.
Furthermore, the poll revealed that 87% of New Yorkers consider crime to be a very serious or somewhat serious problem, while only 11% believe it to be not very serious or not serious at all.
Mayor Adams responded to these statistics by pointing out the impact of media coverage on citizens' perceptions.
He noted that people start their day by picking up the morning papers and being exposed to some of the most horrific events that occurred the previous day. He emphasized that this constant exposure to crime news plays on the psyche of individuals.
While acknowledging that addressing these concerns will take time, Mayor Adams emphasized the need to shift people's focus from what they felt to what they are currently feeling.
He also highlighted the positive aspects of the city, stating that no one can deny the fact that New York City is thriving.
Coincidentally, on the same day in New York, an incident involving an unhinged man wielding a large blade was captured on camera.
The man approached a group of Romanian street performers from behind, causing panic among tourists. He stood on a granite bench, brandishing the weapon and screaming inexplicably.
The man, identified as 22-year-old Dequon Messiah, was subsequently arrested and charged with menacing, harassment, and criminal possession of a weapon.
The Siena College poll also revealed that nearly one in 10 New Yorkers claimed to have been assaulted or burgled in the past year. Additionally, 40% of citizens reported spending at least $100 on personal protection goods during the same period.
Furthermore, 24% of respondents stated that they had purchased a professionally monitored home security system.
Despite these concerning statistics, the NYPD remains optimistic about progress in combating crime.
Acting Commissioner Edward Caban expressed confidence in the department's fight against violence and disorder, particularly as they head into the summer months.
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