Crime has long been a political wedge issue used to stoke anxiety and stir division, and this election cycle has been no different. Although the pandemic crime spike is receding, the politicians who fearmongered about crime in 2020 continue to call for harsher punishments and the repeal of reforms.

Law enforcement officials and other experts understand that public safety and fairness are not competing interests — they go hand in hand. Brennan Center research proves as much, and groups like Law Enforcement Leaders to Reduce Crime & Incarceration know it from experience. This group of current and former leaders of the law enforcement community, convened by the Brennan Center, draws on their expertise to advocate for a fairer criminal justice system and works to reduce incarceration while keeping communities safe.

Listen to a recording of our experts panel’s virtual discussion on the latest data on crime trends and the importance of focusing on facts rather than myths.

Speakers:

• Rosemary Nidiry, Senior Counsel, Law Enforcement Leaders to Reduce Crime and Incarceration, Brennan Center Justice Program

• Beth McCann, District Attorney, Denver, Colorado; Member, Law Enforcement Leaders to Reduce Crime and Incarceration

• Shon F. Barnes, Chief of Police, Madison, Wisconsin; Member, Law Enforcement Leaders to Reduce Crime and Incarceration

• Ames Grawert, Senior Counsel, Brennan Center Justice Program

• Moderator: Natalie Tennant, Former West Virginia Secretary of State

Produced in partnership with Law Enforcement Leaders to Reduce Crime & Incarceration, a project of the Brennan Center. It was recorded on October 17, 2024.

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