House Republicans Slam Philadelphia DA's 'Pro-Criminal' Policies at Hearing

On Friday, House Republicans held a hearing in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to criticize District Attorney Larry Krasner's handling of crime in the city. The hearing, titled "Victims of Violent Crime in Philadelphia," was attended by family members of slain police officers, including Sgt. James O'Connor and Sgt. Christopher Fitzgerald.

The debate over criminal justice reform and prosecution policies has significant implications for public safety and the balance between rehabilitation and punishment. As cities across the US grapple with rising crime rates, the outcome of this debate will shape the future of law enforcement and community relationships.

Republicans accused Krasner of pursuing "pro-criminal policies" that have led to a nationwide spike in crime. "When you don't prosecute bad guys you shouldn't be surprised that you get more crime," said U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio). Krasner has advocated for policies such as cashless bail and reduced sentences for nonviolent offenses.

The committee heard emotional testimony from family members of the slain officers. "Our lives were forever changed at 6:09 a.m. when Jim was pronounced dead," said Terry O'Connor, widow of Sgt. James O'Connor. Joel Fitzgerald, father of Sgt. Christopher Fitzgerald, blamed Krasner directly, saying, "He is part of the problem... He opens that door. He creates the recidivist opportunities."

Democrats on the committee panned the hearing as an attempt to politicize the crime wave, which peaked during the pandemic and has since declined. They emphasized the need for legislative solutions to violent crime, including red flag laws. Democrats also noted that crime has fallen since the pandemic, with a 35% drop in homicides so far this year compared to the same time period in 2023.

Why this matters: DA Krasner was elected in 2017 and re-elected in 2021, promising to bring reforms and transparency to the office. His commitment to criminal justice reform and reducing mass incarceration has drawn both praise and criticism. Krasner did not attend the hearing on Friday, but held two press conferences in response, dismissing it as a political stunt.

According to Philadelphia police data, there were 89 reported homicides in Philadelphia in 2024 as of Friday, down 35% from the same time last year and the lowest year-to-date number in the city since 2016. While Republicans blame Krasner's policies for enabling crime, Democrats argue that the recent decline shows the need for a more nuanced approach that addresses root causes.

Key Takeaways

• House Republicans held a hearing in Philadelphia to criticize DA Larry Krasner's handling of crime.
• Republicans accuse Krasner of pursuing "pro-criminal policies" that have led to a nationwide spike in crime.
• Family members of slain police officers testified, blaming Krasner's policies for their loved ones' deaths.
• Democrats argue that crime has fallen since the pandemic and that legislative solutions are needed.
• Philadelphia homicides are down 35% this year, with 89 reported as of Friday, the lowest since 2016.