Watertown violent crime rate down 20% over past decade, report says
A state agency report says violent crime in Watertown has declined 20% over the past decade, while the police department continues monitoring crime trends after recent stabbings in the city.
By the ClickNNY North Country Desk
Violent crime in Watertown has fallen 20% over the past decade, matching the statewide decline identified in an annual report from a state agency. The report defines violent crime as murder, rape and assault.
Watertown Police Chief Cristin Lyon said grant funding through the state’s Gun Involved Violence Elimination and STRIVE initiatives has supported additional police presence and work in areas with higher crime. Lyon said the department will continue monitoring trends and urged residents to keep reporting crimes despite the improved numbers.
The report comes after a recent series of stabbings in Watertown, including one fatal incident. The source material does not provide dates, case details or the identities of people involved.
This story was written from a community submission and reviewed by a ClickNNY editor before publication.
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