Send FBI Statistics: Lansing Violent Crimes Down, Property Crimes Up

Posted: 8:04 PM Jun 11, 2012
Reporter: Fay Li

In 2011, Lansing is in some ways safer than it was in 2010. According to new numbers from the FBI, violent crimes in Lansing dropped by 5.7% in 2011 compared to 2010.

"Everybody coming together can make a difference and that's how success happens, working together," said Lansing Police Chief Teresa Szymanski.

According to Chief Szymanski, the department also worked with neighborhood associations in the city.

However, property crimes were up in 2011 and burglaries saw a spike of 17%.

Sam Brewster lives in the 4600 block of Lowcroft Avenue in Lansing. He started a neighborhood watch program in October, 2011 after he was hit with a break-in. Another neighbor on the same street also became a victim to a burglary earlier this year.

"The window in my sunroom had been broken into and someone had come in and stolen a couple of computers, a camera, some cash," said Sallie Franks.

Brewster says he's noticed more police presence in the neighborhood recently and thinks that helps to keep crime under control. He also emphasized the importance of having a neighborhood watch.

"The neighborhood watch has actually helped us be more vigilant amongst our neighbors to know who's in our neighborhood...We're there to be the extra eyes and ears for the police."

That's also an idea reinforced by Chief Szymanski, who says it takes everyone working together to put a cap on the city's crime.

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