New York City has experienced its sixth consecutive month of declining crime rates, according to the latest data released by the New York Police Department (NYPD) on Wednesday, July 3rd.
The June 2024 crime statistics show a 4% drop in major offenses compared to the same period last year, with noteworthy reductions across several categories.
The report highlights a 21.1% decrease in murders, a 9.9% reduction in grand larceny, and an 8.8% decrease in burglaries.
These figures contribute to an overall 2% decrease in major crimes year-to-date compared to 2023.
Notably, the city’s subway system has seen a substantial improvement in safety.
Major crime in the transit network is down 6.9% year-to-date, with June marking a 14-year low when excluding pandemic-era data.
Public housing properties also experienced a decline in criminal activities.
However, the NYPD reported a concerning rise in potential anti-Jewish bias incidents.
The department’s Hate Crime Task Force is investigating a 137% increase in such cases compared to June 2023, primarily attributed to tensions surrounding the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban expressed satisfaction with the progress, stating, “As we look back on the first half of this year, we can see the steady progress in the NYPD’s relentless fight against violence and disorder – an unwavering commitment that will continue through the summer months.”
The department’s efforts in gun control have also shown positive results.
Officers seized 3,378 illegal firearms in the first half of 2024, including 220 untraceable “ghost guns.” Gun possession arrests increased by 7.6% in June compared to last year.
While shooting incidents slightly increased in June, the year-to-date figures show an 8.5% decrease. Moreover, there has been a significant 17.8% reduction in citywide homicides compared to the same period last year.
Commissioner Caban added, “The tireless efforts of the men and women of the NYPD have made a remarkable difference, and we will not ever let up. We are confident that our work will continue to positively impact our city and improve the lives of all the people we serve.”