Residents demand urgent police action to combat rising crime

Residents of Pueblo voiced urgent concerns regarding rising crime rates and inadequate police presence during a recent city council meeting. One resident, who shared his personal experience of living in his car before purchasing a home in Pueblo, highlighted the escalating crime in his neighborhood. He reported numerous incidents of theft and illegal activities occurring nearby, expressing frustration over the lack of police response to his calls for help. He emphasized the need for increased patrols and law enforcement presence, particularly on Norwood Avenue, where he noted dangerous driving behaviors and frequent near-misses at stop signs.

Another speaker addressed the issue of mass incarceration, advocating for alternatives such as a tent city jail to manage individuals posing immediate risks to the community. He argued that current facilities are insufficient to handle the volume of individuals who require removal from public spaces, particularly those engaging in disruptive behavior. He called on city leaders to prioritize community safety and explore viable solutions to address these challenges.

Mayor Graham introduced the new interim finance director and acknowledged community efforts in a recent cleanup initiative, while council members discussed the importance of citizen involvement in local governance and the allocation of funds for public safety initiatives. Councilor Maestre suggested reallocating funds to enhance the real-time crime center, emphasizing the need for effective crime management strategies.

The meeting underscored a growing concern among residents about safety and the effectiveness of local law enforcement, prompting calls for immediate action from city officials to address these pressing issues.