While there have been slight upticks in violent crimes in recent years, California is low on the hierarchy for such offenses, ranking around 16th in the country. News shows that for last year violent crime statistics were way down in numerous, well-populated areas; in fact, they may be the lowest in 50 years for cities like Los Angeles. Such decreases were also reflected in areas like San Francisco and Oakland too.
Violent crime was reduced by almost four percent, with all types of crime (except for personal theft, rising by three percent) showing decreases, including property crime. LAPD Chief Michel Moore gives credit to different law enforcement plans put into effect for fighting violent crime over the last few years, along with adding to their Metropolitan Division.
“We’re hitting our stride, we believe, in the execution of those strategies, which are not just police-centric, but are dealing with our communities and our partnerships and our engagement with our GRYD [Gang Reduction and Youth Development] resources and others,” said Moore.
Currently, the most common types of violent crime in California are:
- Homicide
- Rape
- Robbery
- Aggravated assault
The Compton area, famous for their population of violent gangs, has not been so lucky, with violent crime rising by two percent. San Francisco saw a whopping 25 percent decrease in homicides, with total crime down in the Oakland area by 11 percent. Law enforcement plans to keep focusing on prevention over trying to arrest more people, along with providing more outreach and safety programs for the homeless in areas like Los Angeles, as there has been an increase in crimes against those who are on the streets.
“If I’m sitting in my house, the chance of being a victim of crime is less than if I’m sitting outside on the street every night,” said Moore.
“I do believe the next iteration of safety in Los Angeles is a continued expansion of resources for homeless individuals — outreach workers, mental health workers, safe parking programs, latrines, showers, storage.”
If you have been accused of a violent crime in California, you may be very worried about the consequences. This is not the time to go it alone, and you will need experienced legal assistance, as your future may hang in the balance.
Please call the Dolan Law Offices now. We will listen carefully to your concerns, review your case, and offer advice based on many years of experience. John Patrick Dolan understands California’s complex criminal defense laws including white collar crimes, DUI, domestic violence, sexual assault charges, and violent & serious felonies. At the Dolan Law Offices, we provide the experience you need to help you fight for your rights and best interests. Call us at (760) 775-3739 or contact us online as soon as possible.