Fighting Crime and Protecting the Public

I have consistently stated that as mayor, working to reduce crime and making our city safer will always be a top priority, and we are having success in doing this.

In the first six months of 2011, the Durham Police Department reported a four percent decrease in overall violent and property crimes compared to the same period in 2010. Property crime (burglary, larceny and motor vehicle theft) decreased by five percent. Violent crime (homicide, rape, robbery and aggravated assault) continue to be areas of increased effort by our Police Force. With a 2% increase in this area, aggressive efforts through such programs as Project Safe Neighborhoods – a comprehensive, strategic response to the gun violence in our community, are programs targeted to reduce and rid this type of crime in our city.

We must continue to minimize and limit the impact of gangs and criminals who serve to drive, dictate and undermine the possibilities of bright futures for our youth, and the safety and health of our community.

I'd like to re-emphasize that the responsibility for making Durham safe is a community responsibility not just a law enforcement responsibility. We all have a role to play, and we all must get involved to help reduce crime in general and specifically to reduce violent crime in our city.

William V. Bell Campaign Committee
P.O. Box 12535
Durham, NC 27709
(919) 768-2398