Since Memorial Day, the city has been abuzz with worried energy over the recent spate of mob attacks and robberies around the downtown and in University Village.

Rightfully so.

The attacks are worrisome, to say the least. Being surrounded by a dozen teens with fists-a-flying (or baseballs, for that matter, as happened in at least one incident) is relatively terrifying. It doesn’t matter how big you are — unless you’re Jackie Chan, it’s going to be nigh-impossible to fight off an onslaught of caffeinated punks.

But as the talk turns to what the police can do, and whether they’re doing their jobs adequately, there’s a point that needs to be made: this is not solely a police problem.

As Cook County Commissioner John Fritchey said on his Twitter account Tuesday, the solution is broader than that.

“The long-term answer to youth violence isn’t just increased policing. It’s job opportunities and summer programs too,” he tweeted. “Job training and youth programs aren’t expenditures, they’re investments in our future.”

Bravo, commissioner. We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.

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By Monica
Posted: 06/12/2011 10:08 AM

Is there money in the city budget for increased spending in the area of youth programming? I don't believe a genuine solution is as simple as expanding youth programming. Throwing money and programs at this would be a superficial bandaid, not really a long term solution.

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By duh from Downtown
Posted: 06/10/2011 11:50 AM

Ken, we already have all those things (jail time, boot camps, etc). They'll be brought to task when they are arrested. Duh.

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By Ken Gaines from West Loop
Posted: 06/10/2011 8:34 AM

Once again, the media accepts the actions of "urban terrorists" by blaming the problem on the lack of jobs, programs, etc. Enough is enough. When are these bums going to be brought to task. Enough has been spent to buy these terrorists off with jobs and programs. It has failed. Now is the time for jail time, harsh boot camps and strict and tough justice.