Today, Asheville Watchdog begins Down Town, a series that examines crime and the effects of a diminished police force; the consequences of increased homelessness and devastating drug addictions; the impact on tourism; the response by Asheville’s leaders; and the approaches used successfully in other cities.
![](https://mountainx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Screen-Shot-2023-02-28-at-1.46.17-PM-330x341.png)