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MBTA Transit Police report drop in crime – Metro US

MBTA Transit Police report drop in crime

Fewer violent crimes were reported on the MBTA in the first part of this year, according to Transit Police. Credit: Amanda Art/Metro Fewer violent crimes were reported on the MBTA in the first part of this year, according to Transit Police. Credit: Amanda Art/Metro

MBTA Transit Police say violent crimes fell 33 percent overall in the first quarter of 2013, compared with last year.

The department released statistics Thursday morning for Part I crimes between Jan. 1 and March 31. Part I crimes include homicide, rape, robbery and aggravated assault, according to the FBI.

During that time, there was one homicide and one sexual assault; neither crime was reported in the first quarter of 2012. Aggravated assault fell 23 percent, from 40 reported incidents to 31.

There was one additional robbery, from 58 last year to 59 this year, but larcenies were down 48 percent.

“Cell phone theft continues to be an issue, not only here but throughout the country,” the police statement read. “We are committed to reducing robberies on the MBTA and have made numerous arrests for this crime. However, riders are reminded to protect their phones, particularly when seated or standing near open train doors and when leaving the train.”

Transit Police Chief Paul MacMillan praises his department and the public for the declines.

“Through our crime reduction strategies, public awareness campaigns and most importantly our invaluable partnerships with MBTA employees and our community groups, we hope to continue this downward trend,” MacMillan said in a statement.

Despite the encouraging report, MacMillian acknowledged that more work is needed.

“We completely understand that for the victim, one crime is too many and we will remain committed to reduce crime on the MBTA,” MacMillian said.

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