Monroe's Invisible Crime Plan

While running for office in 2020, Mayor Friday Ellis campaigned on presenting a "Comprehensive Plan" where the city of Monroe would see a major reduction in crime, particularly violent crimes. This consists of but is not limited to homicides (murders), attempted murder, armed robberies, rape, threats, and aggravated assault. His first official act was to demote then interim Police Chief Reggie Brown and appoint former Police Chief Eugene Ellis (no relationship) as interim Police Chief until he was able to appoint a permanent person to replace him. Mayor Ellis' pick to lead the Monroe Police Department was Victor "Vic" Zordan, who in his first news conference sent strong messages to the community that "he was looking forward to meeting the criminal element in the community". So far, that "Comprehensive Plan" has been invisible, and the community is wondering, after almost two years, when it will come to fruition. In his recent news conference, Mayor Ellis indicated that crime was down 28%. Many question if this is accurate and even suggest the numbers shared are not only cooked but are deep-fried, considering that there have been over 40 murders in Monroe's city limits within the last two years. In addition, there are shootings almost daily and other violent crimes in the community. Blaming the 4th Judicial District Court Judges, the District Attorney, and others for the high crime rate isn't the "Comprehensive Plan" most imagined. Most crimes occur in south Monroe, but how soon before they happen more frequently in other areas? The strong talk and blame game is not working, and there are no signs that things will change anytime soon. Until the leadership in the community roll up their sleeves and take a deep dive into the issue of crime, quality of life and economic development will continue to suffer. In the meantime, "When will the invisible become visible?"