Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney addresses criticism and response to gun violence at National Night Out in West Philadelphia

[ad_1]

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) – Amid mounting political pressure to reduce violence, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney raised the issue with his critics on Tuesday at National Night.

Kenney says her administration is doing everything it can and blames others for what is going on.

“We are now coming out of the pandemic, so we are bringing more people responsible for preventing violence to the streets,” Kenney said.

He engaged with residents to generate support and participation in crime-fighting programs.

Kenney has come under increasing criticism for its response to the outbreak of gun violence in the city, which is set to surpass all-time highs.

RELATED: Philadelphia Police Commissioner, Community Leaders Discuss Gun Violence Ahead of National Night Out

The latest data from the Philadelphia Police Department recorded 321 homicides so far this year. This is an increase of 26% compared to the same period last year.

“It’s the criminal justice system, it’s the availability of guns, it’s the people who get guns who shouldn’t have them,” Kenney said.

He adds that the city has invested millions in gun violence response programs, which have seen some success in recent weeks.

“We’ve had a few good weekends, not good weekends because we still lost people, but we’re working every day,” Kenney said.

But a growing number of city leaders are calling on the mayor for a more vigorous response, seeking immediate action to reduce gun violence.

“Even though we have to call the National Guard to round it up,” said Deidre Bruce of West Philadelphia.

Patricia Pembrook of West Philadelphia said: “I think more needs to be done.”

Thomas Blackwell, of the Philadelphia Anti-Drug Anti Violence Network, added that he didn’t want to discredit any work that has already been done, but that there is always room to do more.

Kenney says every major city in America faces similar circumstances surrounding gun violence and believes the state legislature should do more to control the flow of guns.

Copyright 2021 WPVI-TV. All rights reserved.

[ad_2]