The American Dream represents a basic belief that tommorrow will be better than today. This optimism is the secret behind America's success. People working and sacrificing for a better future. A future in which they will be economically independent, their children will get a good education, and their home and their lives will be secure.
Crime stikes at the heart of the American Dream. Crime stikes when you least expect it and can rob from you and the ones you love of your property, health and life. Unacceptable high crime rates over the last 45 years have eroded many Americans' belief that things are getting better. Property crime rates have gone from 1,620 per 100,000 persons in 1960 to 4,312 per 100,000 persons in 1997. Violent crimes rates have gone from 160 per 100,000 persons in 1960 to 611 per 100,000 persons in 1997. Is it any wonder why so many Americans have given up on the American Dream.
Eight out of 10 Americans are likely to be victims of crime in their lives. Ridding this country of random unpredictable crime is the key to restoring faith in the American Dream. No amount of material wealth can compensate for unsafe streets and innocent victims.
