New York City has marked a significant milestone, experiencing the lowest incidences of shootings and homicides in recent memory within the initial five months of this year. The data reveals 112 incidents of homicide between January and May, slightly lower than the 113 occurrences in the comparable duration in 2014 as well as 2017, which were previously the lowest recorded figures in the given timeline.
May’s numbers further emphasize this downward trend, recording 18 homicides, which is a small decrease from the 19 incidents recorded during May two years prior. Continually, for the first five months of the current year, 264 shootings were reported, representing a mild reduction from the 267 logged in 2018.
Highlighting the consistent trend, the five months from January to May saw the same number of homicides as was reported from 2014 to 2017. The month of May achieved a new record low in shootings, with just 54 reported incidents, significantly below the previous record low of 61 marked two years prior.
Upon analysis of the encouraging downtrend, various positive declarations have followed. According to authorities, ‘Upon assumption of office, the commitment was to enhance the security of this metropolis and reduce crime. The current statistics reflect that this assurance has been not only upheld but surpassed.’
From the start of the year through May, New York City has achieved unprecedented low rates in both shootings and homicides according to record logs. Reflecting upon these significant statistics, officials have conveyed, ‘Successful outcomes like these are certainly not coincidental, particularly during a period where criminal justice laws have transformed our judicial system into one that seems all too often like a revolving door.’
The driving force behind these changes are attributed to concrete actions taken such as resolute measures in restricting the accessibility of firearms in the community and employing data-informed law enforcement strategies that appropriately allocate police resources at the crucial times and places.
Moving forward, it has been pledged that there will be no complacency from the department working on these issues. In fact, a plan has been devised specifically targeting a further reduction in violent activities in summer. This strategy is characterized as being ‘bold, aggressive, and purposefully designed to sustain and enhance the historic improvements in city safety.’