Tacoma’s homicide rates have dropped significantly since their peak in 2022, showing promising trends for 2024
The average is about 18 homicides a year, but it can vary. Detective William Muse from the Tacoma Police Department mentioned that the drop might be linked to a new Crime Reduction Plan. This plan, created with the University of Texas, aims to tackle serious crimes like murder and robbery.
The plan started in July 2022, focusing on increasing police visibility and holding offenders accountable. It seems to be working, as Tacoma’s homicide numbers are down. In Pierce County, there were about 55 homicides last year, a slight decrease from 58 in 2023 and a significant drop from 79 in 2022.
Most of the homicides in Pierce County were due to shootings, which accounted for 80% of the cases. The year ended with some tragic incidents, including a homicide-suicide in South Hill. The sheriff’s department managed to solve around 68% of its homicide cases last year.
The first homicide of 2024 in Tacoma was a shooting on January 9. The police are working hard to improve public safety, and the newly elected Sheriff Keith Swank is looking for more funding to help with that.
Overall, Tacoma’s homicide solve rate was about 67% last year, similar to the previous year. The police departments in nearby areas like Lakewood and Puyallup also reported their cases being solved.
Sadly, the youngest victim last year was just two months old, and the oldest was 78. The community is hoping for continued improvements in safety as the police work to address these issues.
