Fort Wayne officials announce 14 percent decrease in crime

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (AP) – Administrative and public safety officials say the crime rate in Fort Wayne is declining.

Mayor Tom Henry announced Thursday that overall crime in the city dropped 14 percent last year. The mayor said homicides in Fort Wayne fell by more than 62 percent, while burglaries dropped by 26 percent and robberies by 22 percent. He said property crimes and violent crimes were down by 14 percent.

The mayor also reported a decrease in larceny, assault and vehicle thefts. But he said reported rapes and arson cases increased last year.

The Journal Gazette reports Henry credits the Fort Wayne Police Department and its efforts to reduce crime, especially within the city’s gang and violent crimes unit. He says increased communication with the public and the hiring of 15 police officers also were responsible for significant decreases in crime.