Although preliminary statistics for 2009 show significant decreases in nearly all crime, police reiterated the Department’s commitment to step up anti-crime efforts as warmer summer months approach.

“While it is encouraging to see declines in nearly every category compared to last year,” Chicago Police Assistant Superintendent James Jackson said in a news release, “we must stay diligent and deliberate in our response to violence.”

According to police, murders dropped nearly 21 percent from 2008 between January and March of this year. Other violent crimes, including criminal sexual assault, robbery and aggravated assaults, decreased 9 percent collectively as well.

Emphasizing the crucial relationship between the community and law enforcement, Chicago police and Chicago Public Schools will work together to enforce curfew regulations and provide alternate activities for youth at risk of gang involvement and criminal activities.

Police are also cracking down on gang activity by concentrating special patrols in Chicago’s most violent neighborhoods. The patrols are already credited with the recovery of more illegal weapons this year than in 2008.