Murders Drop 42 Per Cent in August

For the third consecutive month, the police are reporting a decrease in the number of murders committed, which fell 42 per cent during August, compared to the corresponding period last year.
Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) crime statistics, released this week, show that 81 murders were committed last month, as against 139 in August 2009. Last month’s figure was three less than the 84 murders reported in July, and was the third consecutive period that the figure fell below 100, following the 91 reported in June.
The Kingston Central Division, with 90 per cent, recorded the largest percentage decline for the month, compared to the corresponding period last year. The number of murders reported in that division fell from 10 to one.
Up to the end of August, a total of 988 murders were reported, 59 less than the corresponding period last year.
The police say murders, and larceny, which led the way with a 57 per cent drop, accounted for the most significant decreases of the seven major crimes reported on for the month.
With the exception of rape, all major crimes recorded an overall 26 per cent decrease for August. The others include: shooting, carnal abuse, robbery, and break-ins. The number of reported rape cases last month increased by nine over August 2009, to stand at 57.
Overall, the police say 738 incidents of crime were committed during August, 265 less than the corresponding period last year.
Meanwhile, 36 firearms were recovered during August. This is seven less than the corresponding period last year. The finds made include: 17 pistols; 10 revolvers; seven homemade firearms, and two shotguns.