Is Kevin Bethel the Police Changemaker We Need?

Mayor-elect Cherelle Parker’s choice for new Philly Police Commissioner transformed the school-to-prison pipeline. Can he do the same for the city writ large?

By Roxanne Patel Shepelavy

Who Should Replace Danielle Outlaw?

Philly’s police commissioner announced her resignation this week. Here, some candidates the next mayor should consider, and why

By Roxanne Patel Shepelavy

Seriously? Now Drag Racing is a … Hobby?

Hey, Inquirer: Philly’s latest tragic example of antisocial disorder ought to be called out for what it is

By Larry Platt

Reality Check: Will a New Police Chief Above Our Old Police Chief Change Anything?

City Councilmembers are celebrating the idea of a “Public Safety Director” to oversee violence reduction in Philly. But, WURD’s midday host wonders, what will that really solve?

By Charles D. Ellison

What to Do With the Philadelphia Roundhouse

The City plans to sell the old police headquarters. Can — and will — it be redeveloped in a way that respects the building’s history?

By Courtney DuChene

What the Controller’s Police Audit Didn’t Say

Rebecca Rhynhart’s detailed analysis of the department’s budget included several dozen recommendations. The most important one never got a mention

By Roxanne Patel Shepelavy

What Mattered In 2021

2021 was another year of tragedy and hardship—and also hope and resilience. In other words: It was Philly.

By Roxanne Patel Shepelavy

Turning the Tide on Gun Violence… Everywhere But Philly

Some big city mayors are saying enough is enough and are—finally—doubling down on smart policing and prosecution. Here in Philly? Not so much

By Larry Platt