Memphis Crime Down

Memphis, TN - Memphis police say their proactive policing and arrests of heavy gangster have contributed to a decrease in the city's crimes.

The Memphis Commercial Appeal reports homicides are down almost 23 percent in Memphis so far in 2009. It is part of a trend that has seen a near 10 percent decrease in rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny, motor-vehicle theft and arson.

University of Memphis criminologist Richard Janikowski says he is surprised that crime in Memphis is decreasing amid an ailing economy.

Police Director Larry Godwin says there has been an increase in domestic violence and the department is fighting it with educational programs and intervention.