Eric Adams has made progress in reducing crime, but there is still room for improvement.

Mayor Adams was correct on Monday to highlight significant decreases in murders and shootings during the past fiscal year. Read more

However, it is important to note that crime rates, including murders and shootings, are still too high, especially when compared to just a few years ago.

In some parts of the city, there has been an increase in serious crime.

Furthermore, simple tasks like buying toothpaste now require finding a store clerk to unlock a showcase.

The reality is that the city has a long way to go to reach pre-pandemic safety levels.

“Overall crime rates have fallen over the last fiscal year, driven by another year of double digit decreases in murders and shootings,” Adams boasted as he released his Mayor’s Management Report. “Our police officers are working harder than ever to keep New Yorkers safe.”

Indeed, murders from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, dropped by 15% from the previous year. Shootings also decreased by 18%. Gang violence saw a decline as well.

Adams is correct in stating that police officers have to work harder with reduced ranks, and that progressive measures are impacting their ability to combat crime.

However, murders have increased by 13%, shootings by 14%, compared to the same period five years ago.

Robberies have increased by 32%, felony assaults by 41%, and car thefts by 177%.

Felonies overall are one-third higher than they were five years ago.

Crime rates in key parts of the city are not promising: In Manhattan’s Midtown North Precinct, robberies have nearly doubled compared to 2023. Felony assaults have risen by 73%, and burglaries by 58%.

On Tuesday, a 39-year-old man was shot during an attempted robbery in Times Square.

Adams did not cause the increase in crime, as the state’s criminal justice reforms had already taken effect before he took office, leading to more crime.

However, he can advocate for a larger police force and make a stronger case to reverse these reforms.

Additionally, Mayor Adams is currently seeking a new police commissioner after the resignations of the first two.

There is uncertainty about who really oversees the department, with Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Phil Banks and top Adams aide Tim Pearson both under investigation.

New Yorkers elected Adams with the expectation of reducing crime. If progress is not made, there will be doubts about his ability to do so again in the future.