The fight against crime in Detroit has reached a critical stage, with massive police budget cuts looming in the most violent big city in the country, reports the Detroit News. “We’re at a tipping point in Detroit [ ] this is probably the most challenging time in the city’s history,” said Police Chief Ralph Godbee. “I have the toughest job of any other Detroit police chief that came before me.” Mayor Dave Bing has approved a budget, slashing $75 million — or 18 percent — from the department’s $414 million.
The cut will result in the elimination of 380 positions from the force of about 2,600 through attrition and early retirement. The prospect of fewer officers on patrol has residents, elected officials, and police fearing a spike in crime, which Godbee said is already at an “unacceptable” level. Bing acknowledged that the city’s crime problem has reached a boiling point. “This is a difficult time in the city’s history,” he said. “But I know we can fight back.” In May alone, at least 657 aggravated assaults, 278 robberies, 33 carjackings and 33 homicides were recorded. Among those were several high-profile crimes, including the robbery of former Police Chief Stanley Knox as he mowed the front lawn of his home