Public Safety
The current conditions of the Allegheny County Jail are a threat to community safety in Pittsburgh. As Councilperson, I will work to limit the number of people subjected to those conditions, while also working to improve oversight of such facilities and make necessary improvements and bolster accountability. Other American cities have found success piloting 311 police diversion programs that allow residents to call non-emergency services on community disturbances that can allow the perpetrators to connect with community resources such as mental health or substance abuse services, rather than calling police to simply throw them in jail. As Councilperson I will advocate for such community-oriented solutions, as well as other resources to get residents the help they need. Additionally, I plan to improve community and government oversight of police to improve transparency and accountability and make sure the police are working to protect our community, not harm it.
