Brownsville: New York City's Most Dangerous Neighborhood

A Look at the History and Current State of Brownsville

A Troubled Past

Brownsville, a residential neighborhood in eastern Brooklyn, has long been one of New York City's most dangerous neighborhoods. In 2021, the homeownership rate in Brownsville was only 21.4%, significantly lower than the citywide share of 33.3%. The neighborhood has been plagued by crime, poverty, and a lack of economic opportunity.

A Bold Experiment

In an effort to address the high crime rate, the police in Brownsville conducted a bold experiment in April 2023. On a two-block stretch of the neighborhood, the police stepped aside and let residents respond to 911 calls themselves. This experiment is ongoing, and it remains to be seen whether it will be successful in reducing crime in Brownsville.