The city of Stockton saw a dramatic drop in homicides and shootings in 2018.
Homicides dropped from 55 in 2017 to 33 last year, a 40 percent drop. Stockton also saw a 31 percent decrease in non-fatal shootings.
The Stockton Police Department fell to 318 officers in 2012 due to bankruptcy, with a record high 71 homicides that same year. Police Chief Eric Jones says the department now has a record high of 470 officers, which he sees as among the factors in lowering violent crime.
“We’re seeing more police out on the street," Jones said. "I do think that does make a difference, but we’re also seeing more involvement from the community. We’re seeing more tips come in, and so I think it’s really a combination of many different things going on.”
Jones adds that police continue to crack down on gangs and guns, and are taking about 800 to a 1,000 guns off the street every year.
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