New York City celebrated a significant decrease in crime in 2025, with Mayor Zohran Mamdani leading the event. However, the absence of former Mayor Eric Adams, who played a crucial role in the success, was notable. Despite Adams’ efforts to prioritize safety, rebuild the NYPD, and support Commissioner Jessica Tisch’s data-driven policing strategy, his name was not mentioned during the celebration.
Crime statistics for 2025 showcased record-breaking improvements, with the lowest number of shootings, homicides, and robberies in years. Shootings dropped by 24%, homicides by 20%, and robberies by nearly 10%. The subway also saw a decrease in major crimes, with shootings plummeting by 62.5%. While the city has made significant progress, there is still work to be done to bring crime levels back to pre-2019 numbers.
Mamdani’s decision to retain Commissioner Tisch was a positive step, but his reluctance to increase the NYPD headcount raises concerns about the future of policing in the city. His proposed reforms, such as eliminating the gang database, may hinder the effectiveness of law enforcement efforts. Additionally, the rise in youth violence, with a significant percentage of shooters and victims under 18, poses a challenge that needs to be addressed.
Efforts to protect students in school-safety zones have been successful, but extending this protection beyond school premises presents a new set of challenges. One potential solution is to reform the Raise the Age law, which currently funnels young offenders into the Family Court system without adequate resources to handle them effectively.
Governor Kathy Hochul’s plans to address the shortcomings of Raise the Age are a step in the right direction, and Mamdani should consider supporting these efforts to combat youth violence. By prioritizing data-driven, precision policing and setting aside progressive ideologies, Mamdani can build on the success of his predecessors and ensure the safety of all New Yorkers.
