
By Amanda Cooper
Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms is addressing the increased crime in the city.
During a press briefing on Wednesday, Mayor Bottoms said that she and her staff are working on handling this trend. She also spoke about the ongoing street racing problems throughout the city and asked the public to notify the police when they see racing activity.
Interim Police Chief Rodney Bryant also weighed in on the increased crime in the city. Bryant said that the city was working with other cities and the state to develop ideas and technologies to better address street racing problems.
A question regarding public safety on election night provided both Mayor Bottoms and Chief Bryant the opportunity to discuss the city’s public safety plans. Chief Bryant shared that there are no threats at the time but says the city will have operation centers on standby for a response.
After being questioned about police morale, Mayor Bottoms noted that the administration is working with public safety personnel to let them know they are valued. She also added that the city saw some officers leave recently; however, a recent 30 percent pay increase helped stall overall departures.