In a positive crime summary report to Houston City Councilmembers today (Aug. 31), Houston Police Chief Troy Finner shared that violent crime in the City of Houston is down by 10% and overall crime is down 5% compared to the same time period one year ago.
The city’s murder rate, which showed an increase of more than 70% earlier this year, is now down 1% compared to this time last year. Unofficially, the city has recorded 300 murders in the first eight months of this year compared to 304 in the first eight months of 2021.
A second major violent crime category of robbery is down 7%. In addition, sexual assaults have decreased 28% and aggravated assaults have declined by 10%.
“It is important that we get the numbers and facts right when we look at crime in our city so leaders around our city can have the right information,” said Chief Finner.
Following the presentation, Chief Finner added, “We want our citizens to know that the men and women of HPD, our civilian staff, as well as our community, are all collectively fighting crime and making a positive difference.”
The Chief went on to thank Mayor Sylvester Turner and Houston City Council for their support. Chief Finner specifically highlighted the Mayor’s “One Safe Houston” program, which includes the overtime funding of 125 additional officers per day.
The full presentation by Chief Finner and HPD Assistant Chief Milton Martin to the City Council can be viewed on the below YouTube video.
The Chief’s PowerPoint presentation, including year-to-date crime numbers in each City Council District, is available at https://adobe.ly/3pZwGvW
JFC/KJS 8-31-22