Because we should report the crime data when they improve too. Almost three months into the year, homicides have cratered compared to the same time period last year: 34 versus 12 (or maybe ten*?). In fact, nearly every crime category, especially robberies (muggings) and car-related crimes has plunged, with one exception–assaults with dangerous weapon.

That has increased by thirty-five percent during the same time period. Some of that might be different reporting by police (how they classify non-homicides has been a matter of controversy), but what is worth noting is that nearly the entire increase is due to assaults without guns, which might explain why homicides have remained low.

To return to the subject of homicides, if the decline we have seen over the last two years continues at the same pace, we would be on pace for around 80-85 murders. We have not hit peak murder season yet–that starts in April and continues through early September–but hopefully homicides will stay low.

Good job, D.C.

*Based on the dates of two of the homicides, it does not appear that they occurred this year, so it might be ten, not twelve.