Chicago Prepares for DNC Convention Amid Rising Crime Crisis

As the Democratic National Convention approaches, Chicago police undergo specialized training to handle anticipated protests and crowds, while the city grapples with a surge in violent crime.

In preparation for the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in August, the Chicago Police Department (CPD) has intensified its training efforts to ensure public safety during the high-profile event. While officers have been undergoing training since March, this week's focus has shifted toward specialized tactics for handling assaults, attacks, and crowd control.

The CPD is deploying 2,500 officers for "tier one training," which is designed to equip them for the most volatile incidents during the convention. All officers will participate in some form of training, but the tier one officers will receive advanced instruction in body shield utilization, public protection, and injury management.

The DNC is expected to draw approximately 50,000 visitors and potentially massive protests, prompting police officials to take proactive measures. Police Superintendent Larry Snelling asserted that officers are fully prepared to handle crowd management and potential unrest. "We will not tolerate the violence. We will not tolerate the vandalism," Snelling emphasized. "We will not allow people to come into the city to destroy it and leave."

As part of the training, officers have engaged in field exercises such as line-relief tactics, where officers are swiftly replaced to maintain formation and effectiveness. The media was granted a glimpse of these exercises on Thursday.

While the DNC preparations are underway, Chicago continues to grapple with a concerning rise in crime. According to police statistics, from 2019 to 2023, murders increased by 23%, robberies by 38%, thefts by 41%, and motor vehicle thefts by a staggering 227%.

The spike in crime has fueled concerns among residents and raised questions about the CPD's ability to address the crisis effectively. Critics have called for increased police presence and proactive crime-fighting strategies, while others advocate for community-based initiatives and a focus on addressing root causes of violence.

Amid these ongoing challenges, the CPD is determined to maintain order during the DNC. Officials have denied permits for demonstrations near the convention site, sparking lawsuits and declarations from activist groups that they will march regardless.

The CPD has emphasized its readiness to handle any potential protests or disturbances with professionalism and restraint. However, the convergence of the DNC and Chicago's crime crisis presents a complex challenge for law enforcement.

As the convention approaches, the city remains on high alert, balancing preparations for the event with the need to address the ongoing safety concerns that plague its streets. The CPD's specialized training and collaborative efforts with federal agencies aim to ensure a safe and orderly DNC while acknowledging the pressing need to tackle the city's rising crime rate.