Police Commissioner on ICE, Plunging Murder Rate & Future of the Philly Police
Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel is running Philly’s police department as ICE descends on cities across the country, leading to conflict between federal law enforcement officers, immigrant communities, and protesters. We get Bethel’s perspective on the role of the Philadelphia police department when it comes to ICE. Host Trenae Nuri also asks about the city’s 2025 murder rate, which was the lowest since 1966. And in the second part of the show we bring in David Zega, the executive director for strategy for the department, to talk about the new and unprecedented five-year strategic plan for the Philadelphia Police Department. The public comment period for the strategic plan, which you can read here, ends Feb. 11.
Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly
Call or text us: 215-259-8170
We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly
You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm.
Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Stay connected to City Cast Philly and get ready to join the local conversation.
Latest Episodes
Is Philly Really Walkable?
Can you walk to the grocery store or commute to work on foot? For many Philadelphians, this isn't possible. But the city keeps receiving...
'Your City Could Be Better': Why Portland’s Considering Hiring a Night Mayor — Presented By City Cast Philly
Philadelphians, what do you do when your night life starts to dwindle? Nightlife is a huge economic driver for cities, but city offices a...
Deadly Garage Collapse, Fight over President’s House & Guest Parking Passes Go Digital
It’s the Friday news roundup! First, we have the latest on a deadly parking garage collapse in Grays Ferry. We’ll talk about the most rec...
What Could the Future of Baltimore Avenue Look Like?
Baltimore Avenue has beloved coffee shops, bars, restaurants, and bookstores, like Little Bean, a new addition to the corridor. But thing...
Could Pennsylvania Finally Raise Its Minimum Wage?
The Pennsylvania House of Representatives has passed a slew of bills that would reshape some aspects of life in the state. Lawmakers vote...
You Should Join a Club This Week. Here's How.
Philadelphia boasts dozens of clubs, civic organizations, and communities that can help denizens get connected and stay engaged. But find...
Philly’s Thrifting Secrets
As the weather warms up, it’s time to ditch winter clothes for shorts and skirts. But how can you build the perfect summer wardrobe witho...
PECO Price Hikes, Neighborhood Upgrades & Sports Team Folds
It’s the Friday news roundup! PECO says it wants to raise prices again – here’s how it could affect your bill, and where the money would...
Who Will Philly Voters Send to Congress This Year?
This fall, Philadelphia voters will send a new lawmaker to D.C. to represent Pennsylvania’s 3rd Congressional District. For the first tim...
Your Guide to April 2026 in Philly
Spring is now in full bloom, and so is the city. There are so many events, places to eat, and free things to do in Philly this April. Mak...