With all due respect to those who think the media is too negative, I believe every homicide belongs on the front page of the paper, above the fold. The only time they should stop being on the front page is when they stop happening.

Homicide number 11 was just reported today. Here’s the list of all homicides for 2007:

1. DeAndre Allen, 18 (1/1)
2. Virginia K. Mallow, 72 (1/13)
3. Domonique Alexander, 16 (1/25)
4. David L. McCreary, 35 (1/26)
5. Tamara Gregory, 42 (4/7)
6. Anthony D. Hart, 32 (4/16)
7. Dequarrius Sims, 17 (4/22)
8. Carlyts Bovan, 22 (4/27)
9. Montral Fleming, 29 (6/6)
10. Ronald J. Lewis Jr., 17 (6/16)
11. James M. Vaughn II, 51 (6/20)

I had the opportunity to talk to a lady who lives in Harrison Homes yesterday. She lives each day in fear for her safety and the safety of her children. Peoria’s seventh homicide victim, Dequarrius Sims, was shot at her back doorstep (you may recall he was shot in a case of mistaken identity).

I point this out simply to remind us all that these horrible crimes have more than just one victim. The victim’s family, friends, and neighbors are also affected. Ultimately, the whole city suffers.

(Updated: 6/21/07)