Sarasota County crime rate falls

Sarasota County saw a significant drop in crime in 2010. Index crimes, including murder, rape, arson, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny, auto theft, fell 8% from 2009 to 2010.

Sheriff Tom Knight believes the reduction in crime is attributed to the targeting to habitual offenders, strong partnerships with community groups and redrawn patrol zones to better handle calls for service.

A sheriff’s office report also stated that total arrests fell 12% and traffic fatalities fell 13%, and traffic citations rose 5% and DUI arrests increased 17%.

Contact Robin Roy at [email protected].