Incredible missed opportunity to cite the parable of the broken window: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parable_of_the_broken_window

Takeaway: the cops adjusted and succeeded in reducing crime. Great news!

Another theory: people stopped leaving things in their cars, so this form of crime became less lucrative.

That's not what the numbers quoted in the article for police activity suggest. The police adjusted the risk/reward ratio toward risk for offenders. They also worked to get the most egregious offenders which also had an outsized impact.

No need for alternate theory.

Catching criminals and punishing them actually does work to reduce crime.

another: maybe fewer people are commuting to work in the city

alternate: cybertruck windows don't break

Let's find the cloud containing the silver lining! Like prison guards, there are employees that we wish we didn't need at all.

Yes - this is one way in which GDP is a bad measure for happiness. Security, prison guards and glass replacements are all positive for GDP.

Don't forget medical expenses for preventable disease, along with high-fructose-infused food like substances

How can AI solve this problem?

Why don't you think on that and come back when you have a suggestion.

or just ask chatgpt!