Eureka Police Department press release:

In an effort to better inform the community of recent crime trends and data, the Eureka Police Department will release crime data quarterly.  Analyzing crime data is necessary to identify specific problems and alert the community of trends, allowing them to help prevent crime. It is important for the department to regularly compare data to ensure that our resources are being used effectively.  

Below are three graphs that show crime trends spanning from January 2013 through June 2014. Graph one shows property crime. Overall there is a slight downward trend since January 2013. The second quarter of 2014 shows an 8.5% decrease in property crime compared to the second quarter of 2013. 

Graph two shows violent crime.  Violent crime totals include reports of murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.  There is a steady downward trend in violent crime reports since January 2013. There is a 23% decrease in violent crime when comparing the second quarters of 2013 and 2014.     

Graph three: Totals of property and violent crime in a quarterly comparison.

Graph three: Totals of property and violent crime in a quarterly comparison (click to enlarge).

The Eureka Police Department hopes that sharing this information will drive a greater awareness of crime and demonstrate our desire to work with the community.  Citizens who are aware and informed can better protect themselves, and in turn prevent future crime.

Additionally, the Eureka Police Department will be participating in the annual National Night Out event hosted by Target on Tuesday, August 5th, 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Target parking lot.

National Night Out is an annual event designed to strengthen our communities by encouraging neighborhoods to engage in stronger relationships with each other and with their local law enforcement partners.  

Many other agencies are scheduled to be there. Check out an EPD patrol car and meet McGruff the Crime Dog. See you there!