HEMPSTEAD, NY, JANUARY 10, 2018 – Mayor Don Ryan and Police Chief Michael McGowan announced today that overall crime for the year-end 2017 was down significantly in the Village of Hempstead and dropped by double digits in almost every major category. Based on year-end figures that compared 2016 to 2017, total crime was down 19 percent and fell by 29 percent over a five-year average since 2012.
“The major drop in crime is great news and further validates the outstanding work performed by the men and women in our Police Department each and every day in protecting and serving our residents,” said Mayor Ryan. “Across the board we are seeing numbers that clearly show the programs, procedures and technologies we have in place are effective. And while we are always looking at ways to improve, it’s certainly encouraging knowing that our law enforcement efforts are making a positive difference.”
Among the year-end figures, violent crime, including homicide, rape, robbery and felony assault was down 15 percent, with robbery dropping 30 percent. Property crime, which includes burglary, grand larceny and automobile theft dropped by 22 percent. In addition, shooting victims decreased by 43 percent.
When compared to the five-year average (2012-2016), violent crime was down 26 percent, while property crime was down 31 percent. The most notable statistically significant decrease in crime over the five-year average include robbery and burglary, down 48 percent and 45 percent respectively.
“The drastic reduction in crime is a product of the continued hard work by a dedicated police department,” said Chief McGowan. “I’m proud of every one of our police personnel and the incredible results they have been able to accomplish.”
According to Mayor Ryan and Chief McGowan a number of factors have helped contribute to the lower crime numbers the village is seeing. Technology and programs such as ShotSpotter, license plate readers and night vision cameras located in strategic locations throughout the village have allowed the police department to respond faster without having to rely on calls from the public. However, both believe the strong working relationships the village has forged with surrounding law enforcement entities, including the Nassau County Police Department, NYS Police and federal agencies like the DEA and FBI have made a significant contribution as well. Chief McGowan also indicated several state grants have allowed the department to increase manpower and focus attention toward areas that need more diligence.
“I know the safety of our residents will always be a top priority of Mayor Ryan, the Board of Trustees and the entire administration,” said Deputy Mayor Perry Pettus. “We congratulate our men and women in blue and remain dedicated to working with the police department to provide them with the necessary tools to protect our quality of life and continue to reduce crime in our village.”