Crime down in S.B.
The rate of serious crime in the city of Santa Barbara
fell “dramatically” last year, Police Chief Cam Sanchez told the City Council
on May 15.
Sanchez said the rate was especially low when compared to
a five-year average. So-called “Part One” crimes, which are seen as reliable
indicators of overall crime activity, were noticeably fewer.
“Part One” crimes include homicide, rape, robbery,
burglary, auto theft, aggravated assault and larceny. In 2007, the rate of such
crimes dropped 3.5 percent compared to 2006, Sanchez reported. Furthermore, the
rate dropped 10.4 percent when compared to the previous five-year average.
There were 3,375 Part One crimes reported to Santa Barbara
police in 2007, with the five-year average at 3,847. By comparison, 2003 showed
a total of 4,375 such crimes.
Sanchez said the police will continue
to work with young people to turn them away from a life of crime and gangs.
“Unlike some other communities, Santa Barbara has the resources, the
commitment, and the will to make a difference in young people’s lives,” he
said. “We’re showing them that they do have choices, and better choices will
lead to better lives.”