City Cast Denver Tragedy on 16th St. Mall, The Mayor’s Surprising Veto, and a Ginormous New Park
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Jan 17, 2025 Lisa Calderón, a criminal justice reform advocate and former mayoral candidate, joins the discussion on recent stabbings at the 16th Street Mall, raising concerns about downtown safety. She critiques the mayor's needle exchange veto and the slow response to community needs regarding crime and homelessness. The conversation also delves into the Park Hill Golf Course redevelopment and its implications for gentrification and local politics. Calderón emphasizes the importance of harm reduction and community voices in shaping Denver’s future.
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16th Street Mall Stabbings
- Four stabbings on the 16th Street Mall left two dead, sparking an uproar about downtown safety.
- News focused on the suspect and public fear, despite data showing lower violent crime rates than 2020.
Mayor's Response Criticized
- Lisa Calderón criticized Mayor Johnston's press conference response as callous, prioritizing business interests over victim families.
- Calderón suggested the focus should be on systemic failures and mental health, not just increased policing.
Press Conference Interruption
- A bystander interrupted Mayor Johnston's press conference, blaming crime on Democrats and the mayor.
- This incident highlighted public frustration and went viral, reflecting broader political sentiments.