"I can't keep trying to say Uptown is safe:" CMPD chief exits as crime concerns mount
In his last speaking engagement as police chief, Johnny Jennings admitted he's frustrated with the persistent violence in Uptown, as well as the overall perception of safety in Charlotte, especially after the fatal Aug. 22 stabbing of Iryna Zarutska on the light rail.
Why it matters: Even as the killing put a national spotlight on Charlotte, Jennings has maintained a low profile since announcing his retirement in May and accepting a $305,000 settlement from the city.
What he's saying: "I could have had five officers on that same train with her, and I don't know if we would have caught that in time," Jennings told an private audience at a business luncheon Monday. "It just happened so fast."
The big picture: The stabbing fueled the narrative that Charlotte, particularly Uptown, is increasingly becoming unsafe.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/i-can-t-keep-trying-to-say-uptown-is-safe-cmpd-chief-exits-as-crime-concerns-mount/ar-AA1POfS4?ocid=widgetonlockscreen&cvid=98064684fbbb4493d743fdb148aaf37d&ei=29
