Long Beach Cites Lowest Number of Violent Crimes in 41 years

The City of Long Beach ended 2013 with the lowest number of reported violent crimes in 41 years, the mayor and police chief announced Thursday.

Violent crimes were down 13.5 percent compared to 2012, while property crimes fell by 8.5 percent, according to preliminary statistics.

"The continued downward trend in overall crime reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to public safety," said Mayor Bob Foster.

“I am thrilled that we are experiencing some of the lowest crime rates in the history of our city, and I want to commend the police department, its employees, and our entire public safety continuum for their exceptional efforts." 

The police department anticipates that the final 2013 statistics will show decreases in the numbers of rapes, robberies and aggravated assaults, but an increase in murders.

There were 32 murders in Long Beach 2013, compared to 30 in 2012. More than half of the murders were investigated as gang related, the city reported.

The total number of rapes – 102 crimes – and robberies – 1,114 crimes –were the lowest on record. 

Police Chief Jim McDonnell attributed the property crime reductions to an increase in community awareness, participation in crime prevention efforts, and to the professionalism of his staff. 

"Although we've experienced reduced staffing levels in the last several years, I am tremendously proud of and impressed with the outstanding performance and commitment our employees demonstrate to the people we serve," McDonnell said.

"We also welcomed 40 new officers to the field last month and look forward to another academy class to continue our community partnerships and crime fighting efforts in 2014." 

The final year-end statistics will be available in mid-January on the Police Department website.