If you watch KNOE TV or read the Monroe newspaper then you are aware of the huge spike in crime in Ouachita Parish. Or you can buy a copy of the “Justified” at your local convenience store. Community leaders have gotten together to form a think tank to solve the crime problem. A preacher from a large local church said “these people need to come to church to experience God’s love and that will help with the crime problem.” An official from one of the law enforcement agencies said when people break the law we must arrest them and lock them up to protect the public. This is what must be done to reduce crime. A member of the school board spoke of how a lack of education will amount to fewer job opportunities. She was sure more education would help solve the Ouachita Parish crime problem. A member from social services was sure the crime wave was heavily influenced by single parent households and that better parenting was the main key to solving their crime problem. A local coach felt like the young offenders needed to be involved in sports to keep them off the streets and out of jail.

Crime is a problem throughout Louisiana and criminals tend to flock to large cities. Every city and parish has a certain amount of crime but people are particularly worried when crime in their area is constantly increasing and getting more violent. Just as this crime wave didn’t happen overnight the problem will not be solved overnight. Which one of the Monroe public officials’ suggestions do you think would make the most difference?