Homicides Down in New Jersey for Third Straight Year
Although New Jersey’s overall crime rate for 2009 will not be determined until next summer, preliminary homicide reports have shown a decline for the third straight year. Based on a dailyrecord.com report, preliminary murder statistics in New Jersey show a downward crime trend that may be attributed to a state plan combating violent crimes. Other credited crime prevention tactics include advanced surveillance and security systems, more intelligent deployment of police resources, stronger drug and gun laws, and harsher sentencing guidelines.
According to the Uniform Crime Report, the number of violent crimes in New Jersey decreased by 1 percent. Even though this decline is small, it shows that the number of incidents have decreased seven years in a row. The report also shows that there were 26 crime victims for every 1,000 residents last year, which is up from 25 per 1,000 in 2007.
With homicides at their lowest level since 2002, there is no reason to believe that crime rates will show any increase. In addition, the number of murders in Camden fell about 40 percent, going from 55 incidents last year to 33 this year, and Irvington experienced a 30 percent drop-off. These numbers are promising considering that in 2008, Camden was ranked the most violent city in the nation with a crime rate five times the national average.
With these numbers in mind, it is also important to take into account the possibility of wrongful or inaccurate arrests for violent crimes being made from time to time. When law enforcement officials fail to follow specific rules and regulations when making arrests, conducting interrogations, and gathering evidence, charges against an individual may be invalid and therefore dropped completely. If you have been charged with a homicide crime in New Jersey, the skilled homicide New Jersey criminal defense lawyers at Lependorf & Silverstein can help. We have been defending the rights of individuals accused of a wide range of criminal offenses and know what it takes to help you obtain a successful outcome in your case. Call us today at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation.
Source article: http://www.dailyrecord.com/article/20100103/OPINION01/100102015/1005/news01/Homicides+decline+for+third+straight+year
