Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - The Buffalo Police Department has released its official numbers on crime statistics so far this year.
Through Sunday, police say homicide rates are down 45%, with no homicides in the month of August, a first in 40 years of FBI record keeping.
Police add shooting incidents are down 28%, shooting victims are down 35%, and shooting homicides are down 46%.
In addition, police say rapes are down 3%, robberies are down 10%, burglaries are down 5%, and larcenies are down 12%. Also, motor vehicle theft is down 34%.
"The record low numbers we have seen so far this year can directly be attributed to the men and women of the Buffalo Police Department who work tirelessly each and every day to serve and protect the citizens of Buffalo," said Buffalo Police Commissioner Alphonso Wright said in a statement.
"As Commissioner, I have insisted on our officers getting out on the streets talking directly to our neighbors and business owners. The Foot Patrol Integration Unit has sent officers to every single street in this city and I believe we are now seeing the rewards of that effort. I would like to specifically thank former Chief of Detectives Craig Macy for his work the last three years, as we saw a steady decline in homicides, shootings, and violent crime under his watch.
"The staggering declines we are announcing today have been in no small part due to the strong leadership of Chief Macy in the Detective Division. I have full confidence in Chief Joseph Langdon as he steps into the role that he will continue on this downward trajectory. As we see these percentages drop, it is important to remember the human element of these statistics. Fewer robberies, burglaries, larcenies, and motor vehicle thefts means less fear and aggravation for the citizens of Buffalo. Reduced homicide and shooting numbers signify less death and fewer grieving families.
"I thank the members of the department, my command staff, and the strong leadership of Mayor Scanlon, which have all contributed to these outstanding decreases in crime in our city."