Manhattan Institute's Mangual Discusses Crime Trends Amidst NYC Murder Decline

Rafael Mangual, the Nick Ohnell Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, recently engaged in discussions concerning crime and public safety, as noted in a social media post by Scott Jennings. The tweet, which stated, "> .@Rafa_Mangual from @ManhattanInst talks crime at 222pm," highlighted Mangual's ongoing commentary on critical issues within the criminal justice system. His remarks come at a time when New York City has reported significant crime reductions, including a 34% decline in murders and a 23% drop in shootings during the first three months of 2025, according to recent NYPD statistics.

Mangual is recognized as a leading voice in criminal justice and public safety policy. As head of research for the Policing and Public Safety Initiative at the Manhattan Institute, a prominent conservative think tank, he frequently authors reports and op-eds on urban crime, policing strategies, and broader justice reform. His expertise is further underscored by his 2022 book, "Criminal (In)Justice: What the Push for Decarceration and Depolicing Gets Wrong and Who It Hurts Most."

A central theme in Mangual's work is his critique of progressive criminal justice reforms, particularly movements advocating for mass decarceration and depolicing. He consistently argues that such policies can inadvertently lead to increased crime rates, disproportionately affecting minority communities. Mangual emphasizes that while these communities bear the costs of policing, they also stand to benefit most from effective law enforcement and reduced crime.

Mangual's discussions often advocate for robust policing and sustained support for law enforcement agencies. He contends that the progress seen in crime reduction, such as the recent figures from New York City, can be fragile without a comprehensive approach that includes adequate police funding, effective prosecutorial strategies, and a societal commitment to public order. His insights are regularly sought by policymakers and media outlets, reflecting his influence in shaping the national conversation on crime.