Harrisburg Needs Real Action on Crime and Safety

Harrisburg is facing a serious public safety crisis. Violent crime is on the rise, police staffing shortages are getting worse, and residents are left wondering when real solutions will come. The reality is that crime is not just a talking point—it is a daily struggle for families, businesses, and neighborhoods across our city.

For too long, the current administration has failed to take real action. Instead of fixing the problem, we get excuses. Instead of making our streets safer, we get political blame games. Harrisburg needs leadership that will tackle crime head-on with real solutions that make a difference.

A City in Crisis

Harrisburg is at a turning point. The numbers tell the story:

• Harrisburg’s violent crime rate is 857 per 100,000 residents, more than double the state average​

• The city has already exceeded its 2022 homicide total just halfway through 2024​

• Gun violence, armed robbery, and assaults are increasing, making many neighborhoods unsafe.

The people of Harrisburg are tired of living in fear. They are tired of waiting for leadership to step up while crime continues to rise.

The Williams Administration Has Failed Public Safety

The current administration has had years to address these issues. Instead, Harrisburg has seen:

• 33 vacant police officer positions that remain unfilled​.

• Officers leaving for better-paying jobs in surrounding municipalities​

• Slower police response times, leaving communities more vulnerable.

• A failure to expand community policing and crime prevention programs.

Mayor Wanda Williams' administration admits that officers are leaving due to low pay but has done little to fix it. The city has a budget to invest in public safety, yet crime continues to spiral out of control. That is not leadership—it is negligence.

Lamont Jones’ Plan for a Safer Harrisburg

Harrisburg cannot afford more delays or more empty promises. Lamont Jones has a clear and actionable plan to tackle crime and make our city safer.

1. Competitive Pay for Police Officers

• Harrisburg must pay its officers fairly to attract and retain talent.

• Increasing salaries will keep experienced officers in our city instead of losing them to surrounding towns.

• Jones will work with city council to prioritize public safety funding over political interests.

2. More Officers on the Streets

• Strengthening neighborhood policing to ensure officers are visible, engaged, and building trust with residents.

• Expanding patrols in high-crime areas to deter criminal activity before it happens.

• Establishing fast-track hiring programs to fill the 33 vacant positions as quickly as possible.

3. Gun Violence Prevention Programs

• Partnering with community organizations, local leaders, and law enforcement to target illegal gun activity.

• Investing in intervention programs that focus on conflict resolution and youth outreach.

• Strengthening penalties for repeat offenders while also providing alternative pathways for young people at risk of turning to crime.

4. Safer Public Spaces

• Improving street lighting and security cameras in high-crime areas.

• Ensuring more police presence in community spaces, including parks and schools.

• Upgrading infrastructure to make neighborhoods safer for families, businesses, and visitors.

5. Youth and Job Programs to Prevent Crime Before It Starts

• Investing in after-school programs and mentorship initiatives to keep kids off the streets.

• Expanding vocational training and job opportunities for young adults.

• Partnering with local businesses and trade schools to provide career pathways for at-risk youth.

Harrisburg Deserves Leadership That Takes Action

The people of Harrisburg deserve more than just words. They deserve a mayor who will fight for their safety, restore trust in law enforcement, and take immediate action to address crime.

The choice is simple. More of the same failed leadership or a mayor who will fight for a safer Harrisburg.

It is time to put public safety first. It is time for leadership that delivers.

Join the Movement for a Safer Harrisburg

Harrisburg cannot afford to wait any longer. Lamont Jones is ready to take real action on crime and safety. Be a part of the solution.

• Get involved in the campaign

• Follow the latest updates on crime prevention initiatives

• Support Lamont Jones for a safer Harrisburg

The time for action is now. Together, we can take back our city and make Harrisburg safe for everyone.