Why Do Statistics Matter More than People?

A lot has been written lately about crime in Skokie.  At Skokie Voice, we prepared an analyzed crime statistics for Skokie.  The statistics show a definite increase in personal crimes (e.g. robbery, assault, battery) in recent years.  These crimes (except for sex crimes) declined slightly from 2011 and 2012 - although not by a significant amount.  But a decline is certainly better than an increase.  

Just as important, however, is that we at Skokie Voice have talked to many residents these past three years.  The overwhelming view is that Skokie is much less safe than it used to be, even five to ten years ago.  Some have told me they are afraid to walk their dog or park their car on the street unless it is right in front of their home. These concerns arise not from perceptions.  They exist because of what people o observe, such as a bullet fired into an innocent family's living room window.  Many have commented that Skokie's parks are no longer safe and should be avoided, especially at night.  Some might dismiss these comments as "anecdotal."  But they are real fears expressed by real people – people who live in Skokie in some of the areas where crime is a problem.

It would be helpful if the Village Trustees would, for example, hold a town hall meeting to listen to the concerns of the residents.  One can only learn so much from looking at statistics.  I hope that the new Trustees, whoever they are after election day, will make an effort to communicate with the people they serve.

Jerry Kohn

Chair, Skokie Voice