(COLORADO SPRINGS) — A significant increase in violent crimes committed by minors in Colorado Springs, has elected officials looking for answers. They are looking towards legislative changes, or new laws as a possible solution.
One thing city leaders can agree on is that it’s a complex issue that requires complex answers.
The Colorado Springs Police Department says since 2021, there’s been a 59% increase in young people suspected of violent crimes. On Wednesday, judges, law enforcement, political figures, and more all met to try and reduce that number.
“It is alarming,” said Colorado Springs Police Chief Adrian Vasquez, “When you see [kids], [and] he or she looks like they should be eating ice cream or something like that, and they have a gun in their hand, and they’re committing these crimes, it’s just unfortunate. It’s appalling that we’ve we’ve come to this.”
The police chief says that kids as young as 10 years old are suspected of committing violent crimes in Colorado Springs.
City leaders call it a crisis and say something has to be done.
Some point to criminal justice reforms as the problem, and say there’s no more accountability or consequences for minors. Others point to the economy, and say these kids need money or a job.
Either way, one report estimates that crimes committed by minors cost people in the state more than $3 billion yearly.
“I would say that the community solutions that were talked about in the room, are really critical. It’s not just enforcement. It’s not just diversion programs. It’s not just bed space. We can’t forget any one piece,” said Chief Vasquez, “It’s going to take every single one of those pieces to make us successful.”
City officials say there have been 43 smash-and-grabs in Colorado Springs this year. While many of those cases are still under investigation, the Colorado Springs Police Department believes most of them have been committed by minors.
The mayor says this is not the end of this conversation, but only the beginning. The city plans to continue working with community groups and politicians to address these numbers.
