signs that the epidemic of gun violence in chicago was on the decline. feb s homicide rate was half of what it was a year ago and the lowest monthly level since 1957. some have attributed this to renewed focus on public safety and yet concerns remain about the collateral damage done by ramping up policing in any of our nation s cities. just last weekend two undercover new york police officers shot and killed a 16-year-old boy in brooklyn. according to the nypd the officers were forced to shoot because the teen pointed a gun in their direction. but some witnesses say the young man was simply adjusting his belt when the officers opened fire. in response members of the community have gathered in memory and protest of the slain teen each night this week. the conduct in handling demonstrators has also been