Yes, he’s afraid of retribution from the mob. That’s the author’s point. He’s afraid because he can’t depend on the police or anyone else in government to protect him from the mob. Even though the mob is operating in full view of everyone...
I would agree. Why bother paying taxes...if the cops won’t protect your place (like the mafia ensured your protection for the fee you paid monthly). Same for the fire department...they probably won’t come out if the store catches on fire. If you go look at Memphis, New Orleans, and Birmingham...they all went this way....business left, tax revenue dried up, and the city infrastructure died out over a two or three decade period.
not enough noted: USA Today, others report there was
a police *stand-down* the first night. this via
“theeconomiccollapseblog”
Sorry, my coordination is poor, I can’t paste links.