The Hampton Police Division is pleased to report that the violent crime rate in the City of Hampton has gone done for the tenth consecutive year. The violent crime rate declined by 6% in 2011 as compared with 2010, as well as the overall crime rate which declined by 2.4%. The violent crime rates are comprised of Homicide, Rape, Robbery and Aggravated Assault, each of which saw a decrease in 2011. In fact, Robbery and Aggravated Assaults are at their lowest level in the last 12 years. Property crimes also saw a decrease in 2011 with a decline seen in Larcenies, Property Offenses and Motor Vehicle Theft, which declined for the fourth consecutive year by 17%.
These declines in crime were achieved in part by the hard work, dedication and teamwork of Hampton officers and the close relationship that we are fortunate to have with our community. In today’s tough economic times, many law enforcement agencies across the country are operating with reduced budgets. Hampton is no different, yet our services to our citizens have not suffered as a result. The demands on our officers have increased but through their professionalism and responsiveness, they were able to persevere and decrease crime. In 2011, calls for service increased 8% (175,554 calls) as compared to 2010 (163,165 calls).
In 2011, the Hampton Police Division took an aggressive stance towards making the City of Hampton’s roadways safer. The Division implemented a Traffic Unit to improve highway safety utilizing strict enforcement efforts. Since the unit’s inception, the number of traffic accidents within the City of Hampton has decreased by 2%, while enforcement efforts have increased with the issuance of summonses by 6% and DUI arrests by 29%.
The Hampton Police Division is proud of the efforts and achievements made by our officers and will continue to strive to make the Hampton community safer.
Corporal Jason Price will receive questions about this release at 757-727-6638.
