Crime Down in Takoma Park Over Five Years

Takoma Park Police Chief Ronald Ricucci's last message to residents is a mostly happy one.

Through the first half of 2012 Takoma Park has experienced a 15.8 percent overall decrease in crime compared to the same time period in 2011, Ricucci said.

Burglaries are down 56.1 percent, auto theft is down 46.8 percent and aggravated assault decreased by 35.7 percent, according to police statistics.

But not all categories are down.

Robberies are up 13.3 percent and theft is up 10.4 percent, according to statistics.

"As I leave Takoma Park, I believe it is a safer place as a result of the partnership that was created between the police department and the community," Ricucci said. "The community has been a vital part of our success in reducing crime."

Here are some more statistics from the report:

• Since 2007 overall crime has decreased by 28.9% on average when compared to present day statistics.
• Every crime category decreased over the last five years.
• Some of the largest decreases include: auto theft which has decreased by 45.7 percent, aggravated assault which decreased by 44.4 percent and robbery which decreased by 42.6 percent.