Tackling Rising Violence and Crime: Roles of Leaders in Communities Addressing Root Causes

Our communities, along with the responsible managers of society—police, clergy, politicians, and others—play a critical role in addressing the alarming rise in violence, drug abuse, and crime. While these leaders have expressed concern over the increasing frequency of such behaviours, it is clear that concern alone is not enough. The question remains: What can be done to tackle the underlying issues that continue to plague our nation?

Each leader within the community has a part to play. The police enforce laws and maintain order, yet they often face limitations due to stretched resources and the overwhelming nature of the issues at hand. Clergy members provide moral guidance, but their reach is limited if they cannot address the broader social and psychological factors influencing their congregants. Politicians and policymakers create laws and allocate resources, but the impact is often minimal without adequate funding or focus on preventative measures. While all of these efforts are important, none fully address the root causes of violence and drug abuse, leaving us with symptoms of a larger, unaddressed problem.

The untimely loss of life—whether through vehicular accidents, firearm violence, or other tragic means—is not just a loss for the individual’s family but for society as a whole. These deaths, often senseless and preventable, are the result of deeper societal problems that need urgent attention. The government has made some efforts to address these issues, but the increase in deaths caused by accidents and gun violence shows that we may be focusing too much on the aftermath and not enough on the causes. The emotional toll on families, the strain on public resources, and the erosion of trust in law enforcement create a dangerous cycle of fear and uncertainty.

When examining the root causes, we must ask: Is there a connection between the use of alcohol, marijuana, or other mind-altering substances and the rise in violent behaviours and fatal accidents? Alcohol, as an addictive drug, impairs brain functions, leading to changes in behaviour and mood, often resulting in aggression or impaired decision-making. Marijuana, similarly, is a mind-altering substance that can exacerbate underlying mental health issues. Despite these risks, both alcohol and marijuana are widely available, even to youth and schoolchildren, creating a larger societal problem.

We must also consider the broader impacts of substance abuse on family dynamics and the community. Substance abuse often leads to neglect, domestic violence, and a breakdown in family structures. Parents or caregivers who misuse drugs or alcohol create unstable environments for children, which in turn leads to emotional trauma, behavioural issues, and the perpetuation of unhealthy coping mechanisms. These children are at greater risk of becoming involved in substance abuse themselves, thus perpetuating a cycle of dysfunction and dependency.

Furthermore, substance abuse leads to isolation, where individuals disconnect from their families, friends, and society at large. This disconnection can diminish their sense of responsibility and ability to contribute positively to the community. Financial strain is another consequence, as money spent on drugs or alcohol depletes family resources, reducing access to basic needs like healthcare and education. This financial stress, combined with the emotional toll of addiction, increases the likelihood of domestic violence and criminal activity.

The relationship between substance abuse and crime is undeniable. Individuals under the influence of drugs or alcohol are more likely to engage in illegal activities, from petty theft to violent crimes such as shootings and gang violence. Areas with a high prevalence of drug and alcohol abuse often experience spikes in these criminal behaviours, leaving law enforcement stretched thin and unable to address other community needs. The ripple effect of substance abuse goes beyond individual actions, impacting public health and straining medical resources. Overdose incidents, addiction treatment, and the broader public health consequences require significant investments in rehabilitation centres, harm-reduction programmes, and law enforcement efforts.

At the core of the issue is impaired judgement. Alcohol and drug use impair cognitive functions, leading to poor decision-making and risky behaviours. Individuals are more likely to speed, drive under the influence, or engage in reckless activities like firearm use when their judgement is impaired. These impulsive actions escalate the potential for fatal accidents and violent encounters, creating a dangerous environment not only for the individual but for the entire community.

Addressing these challenges requires much more than focusing on the visible tip of the iceberg. It is relatively easy to implement measures that respond to the immediate consequences of crime and substance abuse, but the harder and more necessary work lies beneath the surface. This involves addressing issues within homes, schools, churches, communities, and across sectors—manufacturers, suppliers, caregivers, and road users—all of whom play a role in influencing behaviours. The solution is not just a national one, but a universal challenge that requires the collaboration of all stakeholders to address these issues at their source.

Our leaders must find the courage to move beyond expressions of concern and toward meaningful action that addresses the root causes of violence and substance abuse. Prevention is, and always will be, better than the cure. Now is the time for our community leaders, policymakers, and citizens to work together to create long-term solutions that will protect our communities and assist in preventing further tragedies.

Everette Howell, is a certified family life educator, author and retired Seventh-day Adventist pastor.

Dr Siegfried Howell, EdD is an author, educational strategist and certified Life and Business Coach.