Statement on ‘10,000 new officers by 2010’ proposal

“Speaker John Perzel’s proposal certainly is thought-provoking, as are a number of proposals that House members will be debating later this month in an effort to find ways to reduce the growing
wave of crime and violence across the Commonwealth. I am supportive of any initiative that will bring more resources to Philadelphia to fight crime and put more police officers on our streets.

Long-term, I believe the best strategy to solve this problem is a comprehensive one that takes aim from all angles. To that end, we do need funding for more police on the streets, which Governor
Rendell has proposed as well. But we also need new legislation that will help keep handguns and assault weapons out of criminal hands, education programs for young people, more equipment for
our police officers, and economic development opportunities in our neighborhoods. It is only through the right mix of these tools that we will stem the growing tide of violence and restore safety
and security for our citizens.”

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Last Updated: September 11, 2006