Siena College conducted a poll that reveals a high level of fear among New Yorkers regarding the rising crime rates. The study shows that 70% of respondents are either “very” or “somewhat” worried about becoming victims of crime. Shockingly, almost 10% of New Yorkers claim to have experienced physical assault or robbery in the past year alone.
However, Mayor Adams has chosen an unusual target to blame for the public’s perception of increasing danger: the media. According to him, New Yorkers start their day by reading the morning papers, which often highlight horrific events from the previous day. The mayor believes that this constant exposure to violent stories distorts the psyche of innocent and feeble-minded citizens, preventing them from distinguishing between real-life violence and a peaceful, loving (yet seemingly fake) reality that he would prefer they believed in. It’s surprising to discover that the famously skeptical residents of the Big Apple are apparently so naïve.
Adams frequently directs his frustrations towards the media, often berating reporters when he feels attacked. He recently faced questions about his penchant for nightclubbing and who foots the bill. In response, he criticized The New York Times, dismissing their inquiries as “silly” and disrespectful, claiming there was no need for him to provide receipts. He also mocks journalists for their alleged fear of visiting the South Bronx, where he enjoys spending time with his male friends, highlighting his macho background as a former police officer.
Blaming the media for real issues is not unique to Adams. Many other proponents of the Defund the Police movement and crime-denialists resort to blaming the messenger when faced with straightforward reporting on murder and violence.
Recently, there was a shooting at St. James Park in the Bronx, leaving two young brothers and two cousins injured. According to the police, two suspects on a scooter were behind the incident, but no arrests have been made so far.
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams consistently criticizes media reporting on violent crimes, accusing them of fear-mongering. From his protected position within a federal garrison, Williams suggests that people may be safe but feel otherwise due to media influence. He believes that this perception of danger can lead to harmful policies. In other words, he argues against relying on personal experiences and street-sense to determine safety, as this might result in policies such as proactive policing, criminal arrest, and prosecution.
While Adams does not support the Defund the Police movement and advocates for reasonable public safety policies, the city still faces alarming levels of crime. Although murder rates this year have decreased by approximately 8% compared to the same period last year, they still remain higher than a few years ago. Additionally, Adams has not been able to restore a visible sense of order on the city’s streets, with the presence of mentally unstable individuals, drug users, and the homeless noticeable almost everywhere. Blaming the press appears to be an effortless way for Adams to shift responsibility away from his own shortcomings.
It is important for City Hall to understand that New Yorkers are not gullible. We are well aware of the realities of our streets and can form our own opinions about the presence of crime and disorder. We do not need newspapers or television to inform us to be cautious on muggy nights, just as we do not need a weather report to know it will be hot in July.
Seth Barron, the managing editor of The American Mind and author of “The Last Days of New York,” shares his insights in this matter.
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