Major crimes decreased by 6.2% in the city of Santa Clarita for the first seven months of 2010, based on preliminary crime statistics compiled by the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station.

The City saw a decrease in all Part 1 crime categories in comparison to 2009 except for rape which increased from 13 to 18 incidents. Criminal homicide is down 50%; arson has dropped 53.8%, while aggravated assault dropped 11.7%; larceny theft dropped 3.1%; robbery is down 2.5%; burglary 10.6% and grand theft auto is down 9.3%.

The Santa Clarita Valley Station is focusing its efforts on gangs and narcotics in the coming months, which will included added resources and the reallocation of personnel to reflect a major emphasis on these areas of public safety.

“The Sheriff’s Department and the City will partner to put into operation an aggressive and comprehensive gang enforcement strategy. The program is currently in the developmental phase. If successful, this model will be used in other areas of the City,” explained Captain Paul Becker.

Since Becker was named Sheriff’s Captain in March of this year, he has focused his efforts on several key issues including the development and implementation of a new tracking system for crime tips. The process is automated, provides a follow-up and accountability system, assigns specific sheriff’s personnel to each crime tip, and requires that tips are resolved in a timely manner.

A significant benefit of this new tracking system is that many of the tips are directly assigned to field deputies, which will allow for proactive enforcement efforts and immediate attention to suspected crimes and areas of concern in our community. The new tips system also provides greater accountability and follow up to those reporting suspected crimes.

For more information, log on to www.scvsheriff.com.