Cincinnati is celebrating. The city and police say crime was down in 2014.
City Manager Harry Black credits targeted policing, the Cincinnati Initiative to Reduce Violence (CIRV) program, and strong community partnerships for the decreases.
In Cincinnati, from 2013 to 2014: homicides decreased 14.9% (11 fewer victims) Gang/Group Member Involved (GMI), comprise 57.1% of homicides and decreased 23.4%; shootings decreased 13.4% (59 fewer victims) GMI comprise 49.3% of shootings and decreased 32.0%; robberies decreased 15.4% (246 fewer); burglaries decreased 11.6% (631 fewer); and motor vehicle theft dropped 10.8% (130 fewer).
Black says robberies, burglaries and car thefts are all at nine year lows.
Police Chief Jeffrey Blackwell says crime in general is at a 10 year low.
Gang-related crimes were also down.
Mayor John Cranley says public safety remains a priority. He points to new police recruit classes and lateral recruits as evidence of the city's commitment.
Police are also using data to identify crime hot spots and focus efforts.
Citizens Complaint Authority acting director Pam King says complaints also decreased in 2014.
Over-the-Rhine saw the greatest drops in crime. Police say they're focusing on reducing crime in Avondale.
The University of Cincinnati Institute of Crime Science analyzed the numbers and preparedthe report on the city's crime statistics.
