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

The Real Story Behind Philly’s Violence Epidemic

D.A. Larry Krasner is in denial, the mayor has thrown up his hands, and the police commissioner has gone MIA. But maybe the ultimate solution to our historic scourge of violence lies beyond them, anyway

By Larry Platt

A Predictable Powder Keg

Philly officials who overlooked the smoldering tensions around Aramingo Avenue did that neighborhood—and our city—a grave disservice

By Thom Nickels

Does Police Reform Include Better Policing?

A virtual panel discussion last week was full of talk of reform. But you wouldn’t have known we’re in the midst of a tragic murder epidemic

By Larry Platt

An Argument For Funding The Police

Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw on her crime fighting plan, which is full of state-of-the-art reforms. So here’s a novel thought…why not fund it?

By Larry Platt

Ideas We Should Steal: Police as Guardians Not Warriors

Critical thinking, empathy and kindness are saving lives from Scotland to Florida. Why not in Philly?

By Jessica Blatt Press

Ideas We Should Steal: Ethical Policing

The New Orleans Police Department has been remade thanks to an innovative peer intervention program. Can the Philly PD undergo a similar culture change?

By Larry Platt