The overall crime rate in New York City recently reached its lowest number in 25 years, according to statistics compiled by CompStat.

CompStat provides weekly crime reports from all NYPD precincts. NYPD detectives are able to use the crime data to identify patterns and trends and then develop strategies for combatting certain types of crime in particular areas of New York City.

Major Crimes Down in New York City

“Major crimes” in NYC are divided into two categories:

1.     Violent Crimes: Murder, Rape, Robbery, and Aggravated Assault

2.     Property Crimes: Burglary, Larceny, Motor Vehicle Theft

The most recent CompStat figures indicate that major crimes in NYC were down by nearly 10 percent in February 2017 as compared to major crimes in February 2016. There was a total of 7,339 major crimes committed in New York City last month, which represented the lowest figure since NYC launched the crime-tracking system in 1992.

As far as specific crimes, homicides technically saw a slight increase in February 2017. However, there were actually fewer murders during the month, with the higher number resulting from shooting victims in previous months who were hospitalized and then later passed away. Additionally, NYC shootings declined from 62 in February 2016 to just 40 in February 2017.

NYC Crime Trends: Community Policing Strategy Pays Off

In the early part of 2017, crime has been down across the board in New York. This continues a trend from 2016, when city officials also saw a decline in both violent crimes and property crimes. James O’Neill, the NYPD commissioner, spoke at a press conference in Queens NY and observed that “precision policing” has played a vital role in law enforcement efforts to identify suspected gang members and other criminals.

NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio added that NYPD patrol cops have been able to develop solid relationships with locals and create a free flow of information between police and neighborhood residents. In fact, de Blasio called this an “X factor” in the effort to make New York City a safer place.

 

If you were arrested and charged with a violent crime or a property crime in NY, you need a qualified criminal defense attorney handling your case. The experienced, aggressive criminal defense lawyers at the LaDuca Law Firm can help you fight your criminal charges and avoid the most severe penalties. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at our office in Rochester, New York.