Atlanta figures show violent crime down in ‘08

Atlanta appears on pace to record a drop in violent crimes this year, ending three years of increases.

A comparison of Atlanta Police Department crime statistics from the first six months of 2008 with 2007 crime reports released by the FBI on Monday shows violent crimes, including murder, rape and robbery, are projected to drop by nearly 13 percent in Atlanta this year.

The new statistics show property crimes in Atlanta rose 12.4 percent and violent crimes went up 7 percent in Atlanta in 2007, while national statistics showed slight dips in both categories.

Violent crimes, however, have dropped off this year.

Atlanta reported 50 homicides through the end of June, which puts the city on track to have 22 percent fewer killings than in 2007. Last year’s homicide tally — 129 — was the highest number since 2003.

Among major crimes, robbery posted the biggest jump in Atlanta — 20.9 percent — in 2007. But it appears to be tapering off this year.

Reported rapes have dropped dramatically during the past five years, and the numbers are still dropping.

If the last half of 2008 is consistent with first six months, about half as many rapes will be reported this year than in 2004 (267).