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City Has Largest Decrease In Crime In State For Same Size Populations
(October 24, 2008) The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has just released its mid-year crime report for cities through-out the state.
The report shows a 20% decrease in the crime rate over the first six months of 2008 in the City of West Palm Beach.
This is the largest drop for any city it’s size in Florida.
Mayor Lois Frankel credits a multitude of strategies with this extraordinary accomplishment,”Strong cooperation with other law enforcement agencies, more officers on the streets, innovative police strategies, active participation of our citizens and programs for our youth are major factors in this accomplishment. Our reduction in crime translates into millions of dollars in savings for taxpayers because of reduced costs for enforcement and prosecution and the hardship and losses caused to victims.”
Chief Delsa Bush believes the hard work of her officers and enforcement of new legal and high-tech tools play a role “We were the first in the state to have an anti-gang ordinance, the first in the area with a downtown curfew for teens, and one of the first departments to utilize the latest technology such as remote cameras in high crime areas. Of course, the dedication of our officers is the key.”
This major reduction is not a statewide trend. Many areas are experiencing significant increases in crime…you can see the stats for the entire state by visiting this web address:
http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/FSAC/UCR/2008/2008SA_County_Municipal_Off.pdf
The decrease represents almost 900 fewer crimes in the city to date this year.
Mayor Frankel asks all residents and visitors to continue their vigilance,” We know that there is still much work to be done. And we will work diligently to keep this trend going.”
For Additional Information: West Palm Beach Public Information Office Chase Scott (561) 822-1411
