The City of Long Beach last week announced efforts underway from the Long Beach Public Safety Continuum in response to recent increases in crime.
In 2014, the City achieved the lowest reported number of violent crimes in 42 years, according to officials. However, over the past few months, overall crime has increased 5.3 percent when compared to the five-year average through May 31.
“Every department in the city is working to address this summer spike in violence and to keep every community safe,” said Mayor Robert Garcia.
Long Beach Police Chief Robert Luna said his department is very concerned about a recent spike in violent assaults.
“We are working closely with city departments on a public-safety initiative and increasing our efforts to enhance partnerships within the community,” Luna said. “Keeping our city safe is everyone’s responsibility, and I look forward to working together to make an impact on crime.”
Luna indicated the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) is being proactive when it comes to combatting crime. Officers are responding to high-priority calls citywide in under five minutes, according to city officials.
“Our police need our support, so if you see a crime being committed, it needs to be reported so we can hold those who commit violent crimes accountable,” Garcia said.
