Homicides on the decline in Los Angeles

As of June 30, 2010, preliminary reported crime data shows that criminal homicides in Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) patrol areas have decreased by 17.14 percent, compared to the same year-to-date period last year (104 homicides last year compared to 85 this year). This follows a five-year continuous decrease, resulting in nearly half as many homicides as there were five years ago and the lowest homicide rate since 1975. Most notable were decreases in homicides in the Century Station area (which includes the city of Lynwood and nearby unincorporated areas) and Compton Station area (including the city of Compton and nearby unincorporated areas). Compton Station homicides have reduced by 30.2 percent, with 23 homicides last year compared to 16 this year. Century Station had 19 homicides during the same period last year, as compared to 14 homicides this year, for a 26.9 percent decrease.

Reported incidents of violent crimes (Part I) in 2010 compared to 2009 have declined 3.81 percent, and serious property crimes (Part I) have declined by 4.73 percent in sheriff’s patrol areas countywide. These combine to show a 4.55 percent decrease in overall Part I crimes. Sheriff’s stations experiencing the most significant decreases in overall violent crimes (Part I) over last year included Walnut Station at 35.4 percent, Industry Station at 31.3 percent, Lakewood Station at 16.9 percent and Temple Station at 11.2 percent.

2009 to 2008 full year comparisons of violent crimes and serious property crimes (Part I) reported in LASD patrol areas showed a greater decrease in all major reported crime categories than the national average. Overall, LASD patrol area violent crime decreased 9.8 percent as compared to 5.5 percent nationally. Homicides fell by 12.3 percent, compared to 7.2 percent nationally. Aggravated Assaults decreased by 10.5 percent compared to 4.2 percent nationally. Overall property crimes in LASD patrol areas decreased by 10.1 percent as compared to 4.9 percent nationally. Burglaries dropped by 8.8 percent compared to 1.7 percent nationally, while Arson fell 14.4 percent compared to 10.4 percent nationally.

“The safety of the public is our greatest concern. We encourage the community to enjoy the summer weather, yet we remind everyone that personal safety begins with each individual. The warmer months often bring increased consumption of alcoholic beverages and aggressive behavior by some people. Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid contact with people or groups acting aggressively. If you choose to drink alcohol, please drink responsibly. And if you do drink, don’t drive,” said Sheriff Lee Baca.