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Criminals Gone Wild

East St. Louis, faced with budget shortfalls, will lay off 30% of its police force (19 of its 62 officers) after negotiations with the union failed.? City residents and police officers worry the move will lead to a significant increase in crime.? “It’s open field day now,” said Reverend Joseph Tracy of Straightway Baptist Church. “The criminals are going to run wild.” Emotions ran high at the City Council meeting where Mayor Alvin Parks made the announcement.? “The blood is on your hands,” yelled Michael Hubbard, a police officer who says he’ll be the only cop on the midnight shift after the layoffs are effective. (HT: Collin Campbell) [%comments]


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