PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Overall crime in Philadelphia has been steadily declining. In 2021, the city hit a record number of homicide victims: 562. Now, it is on track to hit its lowest in 20 years.
Shootings have fallen about 40% from last year, and homicides are down by about 60%. Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel said overall crime has reduced by 14%.
Detectives have solved about 80% of cases this year, which Bethel said helps mitigate retaliatory gunfire.
“Much of the violence we see is retaliation,” he said. “When you can clear these cases and bring the individuals in, you reduce that level of violence. You are able to cut down on the retaliation, which is one of the things that causes the violence, so it’s so critical.”
Bethel credits the work of all of his officers over the years, as well as community partners, law enforcement partners and other city officials.
“For the first time, we are all rolling in the same direction,” he said. “I am seeing them offer a lot more in trying to get individuals to move away from that violence.”
Bethel and Mayor Cherelle Parker are framing their long-term public safety plan. Last week, they announced a new survey, seeking the public’s input on shaping the police department’s goals. Take the survey at phillypolice.com/strategicplan.