Florida crime rate drops almost 5 percent

TALLAHASSEE – Florida's 2014 Annual Crime in Florida report, released today, shows Florida's crime rate dropped 4.9 percent compared to 2013.

The total number of crimes fell 3.6 percent from last year which translates into 25,476 fewer crimes than in 2013. Overall the number of violent crimes dropped 0.7 percent while nonviolent crime fell 4.1 percent. Murder and sex offenses were up slightly while robbery and burglary fell.

The number of law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty increased in 2014 to six deaths. Four officers died after being shot and two were killed by vehicles.

Overall, domestic violence offenses were down 1 percent from 2013. Domestic violence murders were up 24 deaths last year while domestic violence manslaughter was down five deaths.

396 of Florida's 402 law enforcement agencies participated in the 2014 Uniform Crime Report representing 99.7 percent of the state's population.

The complete 2014 Annual Uniform Crime Report, including county-by-county breakdowns, can be found on FDLE's website at http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/Content/FSAC/UCR/UCR-Home.aspx.

FDLE began tracking crime statistics in 1971.

Governor Rick Scott said, "I am proud today to stand with our state's law enforcement community to celebrate Florida's 44 year low crime rate. This news is made possible by the brave men and women who protect our communities and risk their lives every day to ensure our families are safe. Florida's low crime rate contributes to the state's economic growth and momentum. It's truly a reason why more and more people are visiting and moving to the Sunshine State to live their dreams."

Attorney General Pam Bondi said, "I want to thank law enforcement officers across the state for this drastic drop in Florida's crime rate. It is because of the selfless acts of sacrifice and bravery by our law enforcement officers that Florida remains a safe place to live, work and raise a family. Unfortunately, six officers last year lost their lives protecting our communities and we cannot forget their sacrifices as we recognize the drop in our crime rate."

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater said, "Florida's 44 year crime low did not happen by accident. I applaud the men and women from law enforcement agencies across our state for their dedicated service. It is their commitment that made achieving this milestone possible."

Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam said, "Florida's crime rate is the lowest in more than four decades. I am proud of all of our law enforcement officers across the state who ensure the safety of our citizens and visitors 24 hours a day, every single day of the year."

FDLE Commissioner Rick Swearingen said, "As Florida's crime rate continues to fall, I thank Florida law enforcement who routinely put themselves in harm's way to keep our citizens and visitors safe. We especially remember those officers who died in the line of duty and their families."

Florida Sheriffs Association President and St. Johns County Sheriff David Shoar said, "The results of the 2014 Annual Crime Report are testimony to the dedication and hard work of deputy sheriffs and law enforcement officers across the state. This report also demonstrates the effectiveness of sending deserving criminals to prison, keeping them away from law-abiding citizens."

Florida Police Chiefs Association President and Jupiter Police Chief Frank Ketzerow said, "This report continues to show the good work that is being performed by Florida's men and women in law enforcement. However, even one life lost or one officer killed is one too many, so we must keep ever vigilant to do all we can to keep the citizens, visitors and law enforcement officers in our state safe."

Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence President/CEO Tiffany Carr said, "We are pleased that overall domestic violence incidents declined slightly last year. However, we are deeply concerned about the significant increase in domestic violence murders during the same time period. We are committed to continuing our work with law enforcement partners to address this horrific crime that continues to plague our state."