In his first interview since being elected the governor-elect of Pennsylvania, Attorney General Josh Shapiro talked to Larry and Marty on the Big K Morning Show about what challenged the commonwealth faces going forward.
With violent crime on the rise, especially in juveniles, Shapiro says one of his top priorities is hiring more police and strengthening law enforcement.
“We’re also going to put money in my first budget to allow municipalities to hire more police officers to draw down state funds to add to their compliment,” said Shapiro. “I think all of those things are going to be important, you’re going to see us work together effectively. You’re going to see me appoint a new head of the State Police.”
The Democrat, who beat Republican Doug Mastriano this past Tuesday says while we need more police officers, it will take more to solve the crime problem.
“We need to make sure that the supports in the community, from the church to the local organizations have investments made in it so it can provide or they can provide real meaningful services to our young people but we cannot ignore this and it’s got to be done in a multi-pronged way,” said Shapiro.
Shapiro added that juveniles need to realize they will be punished for breaking the law.
“These juveniles and others need to know there are going to be real consciences for picking up a gun, let alone using it,” said Shapiro. “Remember, it’s illegal for a 13-year-old to pick up a handgun and brandishing it on our streets here in Pittsburgh.”
“It’s not one of these things that gets fixed overnight,” said Shapiro saying it will take the governor, and mayors and other leaders to make the kind of progress that needs made.
Other priorities in Shapiro’s agenda include investing in public education and growing the economy.