Many people who live in the suburbs have a level of nervousness coming into Philadelphia because of the stories they have seen, read, or heard about crime in the city.

Similar things have been said by city residents about crime in their own neighborhoods, writes Allan Domb for Philadelphia Magazine.

While Philadelphia did see a heightened crime rate during the pandemic, crime has dropped substantially.

According to statistics from the Philadelphia Police Department, homicides are down about 38 percent compared to the same time last year. This represents its lowest number of murders since 2015.

Why is this the case?

“I believe one reason Philadelphia is doing particularly well is the outstanding leadership of our new police commissioner, Kevin Bethel. Commissioner Bethel is, in my estimation, one of the best police leaders out there right now,” Domb said.

Former Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey, who believes Bethel is one of the best police leaders in America, said what makes him so good is his focus on data.

“When he makes decisions, it’s based on real information, not just gut feeling or pressure from someone else,” said Ramsey. “He’s about as solid as they come.”

Bethel’s relationship with Mayor Cherelle Parker is another key part of the equation in help increase the city’s safety.

Read more about why crime in Philly has been declining in Philadelphia Magazine.

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