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Mo' Police, Mo' Money
Amid the budget drama at city hall, LA Weekly today points out a RAND report that was released last month. In part, the study found that "an approximately 10 percent expansion of the police force in Los Angeles, begun in 2005, would generate about $475 million in annual crime reduction benefits, substantially above the $125 million to $150 million annual cost of the officers." Basically, effective police forces save cities money because crime causes "lost productivity, medical expenses, and decreased quality of life," says the Weekly. Citywide, the force is losing 35 officers a month due to a hiring freeze mixed with retirement.
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Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
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