Ras Baraka's 100 Days: Less Crime, but Long Road Ahead for Newark

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was swept into office promising his city's residents, "When I become mayor, we all become mayor!" 

One hundred days into his tenure, Newark's residents are holding him to the high standards the long-time activist set for himself.

There have been 30 homicides since Baraka took office. That's nine fewer murders than over the same period last year. But when Baraka and his police director made one of their regular door-to-door walks through high-crime neighborhoods, Newarkers let their new mayor know they expect more.

"With the crime that's out here, I don't see a difference," said city resident Keisha Hins. "I mean, we'll see. He's only been in office 100 days, so you've got to give him a chance."

The city stats say crime is down. Shootings have been cut almost 20 percent and carjackings have gone down by half, according to the police director. 

Baraka demoted six deputy police chiefs to save money and get more cops back on the ground, and the city hired 35 more officers. About 70 percent of the Newark police force is now patrolling the streets.

A vigil displayed during Mayor Baraka's neighborhood walks in Newark.

(Sarah Gonzalez/WNYC)

The mayor said passing the budget is his top accomplishment in the city so far. 

Just this week, the City Council unanimously approved Baraka's budget. He said it will guide the city out of a $93 million deficit, accomplished without any layoffs in city government. The state chipped in $10 million in transitional aide and the Mayor's office says it cut spending in areas like travel. It also redirected millions from the Newark Housing Authority to settle debt payments.

But the lack of jobs is still a problem, and Police Director Eugene Venable said it's contributing to an increase in thefts in the city.

Baraka said developing Newark's local economy remains among his biggest challenges going forward. "Some of the things what we have to do, it's going to take us longer than 100 days," said Baraka. "There are things we have to go around permitting, around small businesses, around development."