The decrease in crime is primarily, but not entirely, due to a significant decrease in auto thefts and thefts from motor vehicles.
SHELBY COUNTY, Tenn. — Crime in the Mid-South is officially on the decline again, according to a new report from the Memphis-Shelby Crime Commission.
The decrease in crime is primarily, but not entirely, due to a significant decrease in auto thefts and thefts from motor vehicles.
“Reported vehicle thefts are down about 30 percent compared to last year,” said Bill Gibbons, executive director of the Memphis-Shelby Crime Commission. “Law enforcement is putting more emphasis on tackling vehicle theft. The Memphis Police Department now has a special unit dedicated to auto theft. They have distributed thousands of steering wheel locks,” he said. said.
Memphians are also changing their behavior to be more aware of the issue, and Gibbons said they will need to continue to do so.
“Residents deserve a lot of credit. There’s increased awareness of the problem of vehicle theft. The problem of theft from vehicles. I think residents are being a little more careful.”
But for some people who have recently become victims of car crime, the overall trend offers little reassurance.
“No. When it happens to you, you don’t feel that way. National averages and city averages don’t apply. I think I’m a lucky person,” said Justin, a recent car break-in victim. Dawkins said.
This downward trend has been hinted at by Interim Police Chief CJ Davis in the past, particularly during his campaign for the permanent position earlier this year.
“I think law enforcement needs to continue to be focused on this issue and will continue to be focused on this issue. The public needs to continue to be extremely vigilant,” Gibbons said.
