Hennepin Co. Sheriff Calls Increase In Violent Crime An 'Alarming Trend'
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The Hennepin County Sheriff's Office says violent crime has increased by 6 percent from the same time period in 2015, according to mid-year crime statistics report.
Violent crime includes homicide, rape, business robbery, person-to-person robbery and aggravated assault.
"The Sheriff's Office sees this increase as a major issue, and we have rededicated our resources to fight this alarming trend," Hennepin County Sheriff Rich Stanek said. "As always, we need the help of community leaders and residents. We all share the responsibility to prevent crime and partner in keeping our families and neighborhoods safe. We welcome all crime tips, including anonymous tips."
The mid-year statistics, which covers the time period of January to June, also shows that there was a countywide increase in rape (11 percent), business robbery (22 percent) and aggravated assault (11 percent).
However, there were areas of improvement. There was a 24 percent decrease in homicides (19 compared to 25 in same period last year) and a 4 percent decrease in person-to-person robbery.
There also was a slight decrease in property crimes and part 1 crimes.
Property crimes include business burglary, residential burglary, larceny, motor vehicle theft and arson. Part 1 crimes include both violent crime and property crime.