According to a recent study, a high concentration of dogs in a neighbourhood is associated with a low number of street and property-related crimes. Mutual respect and care are developed among people when friendly conversation and dog walking are encouraged. This seems to result in additional surveillance around the community, deterring potential crimes like robbery, aggravated assault, and possibly homicide. Want to find out if a neighbourhood is safe? Go for a walk on a busy morning and count how many dogs you see! Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
