A few things:

1) Data/statistics should be available to reporters regarding crime, and that includes race stats. Burying our heads in the sand isn't going to help.

2) Considering the reputation Scarborough has, it really is North York, that has the problem.

3) I disagree that these areas don't have enough social services. Regent Park's Pool is one of the best in the city. TDSB is incredibly good public schooling. Lots of recreations programs are free or cheap. Lots of these communities also get free access to fitness centres.

4)Yes, as the quote in the article said, these neighborhoods were in better shape in the 70s. But the neighborhood profile also has changed since the 70s.

5)The complaint about the DVP being close by to some of these areas, allowing for fast getaways was over the top. No DVP, and then they'd complain it's too hard to get around.

I think one of the big problems here is having low income housing so highly concentrated.