Major US Mayors Seek Expanded Federal Support to Combat Serious Juvenile Crime

A recent survey by the U.S. Conference of Mayors reveals that nearly six in ten mayors of major U.S. cities consider juvenile crime a serious issue, with car theft, retail theft, and firearm crimes among the top concerns. Despite overall reductions in violent crime in many cities, mayors express a strong desire for increased federal support, particularly from agencies such as the DEA, FBI, and ATF, to aid in investigations, drug trafficking, and gun tracing efforts. The mayors also seek federal grants to enhance police technology and equipment, emphasizing the need for a collaborative partnership with the Trump administration and Congress to further reduce crime. While President Donald Trump has taken steps such as deploying the National Guard to crime-affected cities, the survey shows no mayors specifically requested National Guard involvement, instead highlighting the value of federal law enforcement partnerships. The survey underscores the ongoing challenges cities face with crime and the importance of coordinated local and federal efforts, including prevention and intervention programs targeting youth. This comes amid a broader political context where Republicans, including Trump, are pressing crime as a key issue ahead of upcoming elections.