WILMINGTON, DE — Wilmington’s murder rate decreased by a significant 22% in 2023 compared to the previous year, according to the Wilmington Police Department’s year-end report released yesterday. The city reported 14 murders in 2023, down from 18 in 2022, marking the lowest total since 2003.
The report, presented by Mayor Mike Purzycki and Chief of Police Wilfredo Campos, delves into the city’s crime statistics for the past year and provides an overview of the police department’s operations and community initiatives.
While the reduction in murders is a positive sign, the city did see a slight uptick in shooting incidents, with 91 reported in 2023 compared to 83 in 2022. However, this figure remains lower than the totals for 2020 and 2021 and shows a 45% reduction compared to 2017. The report also noted a trend of isolated incidents leading to shootings and murders, with a decrease in group-related violence.
The report categorizes 36% of shooting incidents and murders as ‘isolated’, with 10 being domestic-related and 23 resulting from altercations, neighbor disputes, or other causes. Approximately 20% were linked to narcotics or robberies, and 19% were connected to group violence. The motives behind the remaining 25% of incidents are still under investigation.
Chief Campos said, “Our year-end report includes more data and analysis than ever, and chronicles a wide range of community initiatives and outreach efforts we have put in place to build relationships with our residents and to support the overall wellness of our community.”
However, not all the news was positive. The report revealed a 9% increase in overall Part 1 crimes compared to 2022, largely due to a substantial increase in auto theft incidents, particularly involving Kia and Hyundai vehicles. Excluding this category, the city experienced a reduction in overall major crime.
Mayor Purzycki praised the efforts of his administration, Chief Campos, and the Wilmington Police Department in reducing crime and vowed to continue working on making Wilmington safer. He also expressed gratitude to Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings, U.S. Attorney David Weiss, and partner agencies for their support and collaboration.
While these numbers are encouraging, both Mayor Purzycki and Chief Campos emphasized that there is still work to be done to ensure the safety and well-being of all Wilmington residents.
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