NewsNational News

Actions

Crime drops around the world as COVID-19 keeps people inside

Crime file
Posted at 6:34 AM, Apr 11, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-11 07:58:30-04

BY STEFANIE DAZIO, FRANKLIN BRICENO and MICHAEL TARM — The coronavirus pandemic that has crippled big-box retailers and mom-and-pop shops worldwide may be making a dent in illicit business, too.

In Chicago, one of America’s most violent cities, drug arrests have plummeted 42% in the weeks since the mayor ordered the city to shut down, compared with the same period last year.

Overall, Chicago’s crime declined 10% last month, a trend playing out across the U.S.

Much of the decrease has taken place because of tougher security policies and gang truces.

But the imposition of near-total limits on movement is likely driving it down further.