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Armed Robbery Down 30 Percent in Third Quarter of 2016

by Tyler Gamble

November 11, 2016

Categories: Transparency

Topics: Good Police Work

Armed Robbery Down 30 Percent in Third Quarter of 2016

The number of armed robberies reported citywide dropped by 30 percent in the third quarter of 2016 when compared to the same time last year, according to the Uniform Crime Report (UCR).  The numbers represent what has been a steady decline in armed robberies in the first nine months of the year. And in fact, at 212 armed robberies, it’s the smallest number of armed robberies reported citywide in a quarter since the third quarter of 2013. Burglary and auto theft reports also both saw double-digit reductions this quarter.

Click here to view UCR numbers from 2013-present

“We’ve worked quickly and aggressively over the past several months to attack violent crime, with a strong focus on preventing and solving armed robberies reported citywide,” said NOPD Superintendent Michael Harrison. “This focused coordination of police resources has led to a double-digit decrease in crimes of opportunity and it’s clear that individuals are thinking twice before making a decision that will have major consequences. We will continue to work aggressively every day to continue the progress and make all of our neighborhoods safe.”

In July, Chief Harrison launched the TIGER (Tactical Intelligence Gathering and Enforcement Response) task force, which is charged with going after those individuals and groups that commit armed robberies throughout the city. Since then, this task force has been responsible for 24 arrests and has identified dozens more as suspects.

However, there is more work to be done on reducing overall crime. Third quarter statistics showed an increase in reports of murder, simple robbery and assaults compared to the third quarter of 2015.

Continuing to grow the force

In order to increase street patrols in neighborhoods across the city, earlier this year, Chief Harrison redeployed dozens of officers from administrative duties to respond to citizen calls. In addition to the redeployment, the department has launched three recruitment classes so far this year as part of its on-going recruitment effort. A fourth class is expected to launch before the end of the year.