L.A. Sheriff Reports 11% Drop In Homicides In 2012

For the first five months of 2012, homicides fell and overall crime rose in the jurisdiction patrolled by Los Angeles County Sheriff's deputies as compared to the same period in 2011.

For the first five months of 2012, homicides fell and overall crime rose in the jurisdiction patrolled by Los Angeles County Sheriff's deputies as compared to the same period in 2011.

As of the end of May, preliminary reported crime data shows that overall incidents of violent crimes (Part 1) increased 3.44% and serious property crimes (Part I) increased 6.39% in sheriff's patrol areas countywide. These numbers combine to show a 5.85% increase in overall Part I crimes.

Criminal homicides through the end of May fell 11.54% in sheriff's patrol areas—67 compared to 74 in 2011—and have decreased by 37.84% compared to the 111 recorded during the first five months of 2007. In 2011, the LASD recorded the lowest homicide rate in Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department patrol areas since 1965.

The LASD's East Los Angeles Station has policed the unincorporated area of East Los Angeles and the City of Commerce for many years. Beginning July 1, 2010, East Los Angeles Station added the policing of the cities of Maywood and Cudahy.

To view the LASD 1960-2010 homicides and ratios, and 1960-2010 charts of Part 1 crimes and rates at the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Website. Read the full crime report, "Crime Prevention and Information."

About the Author