The city of Syracuse is ending 2025 with a decline in crime for every major category. Outgoing mayor Ben Walsh credits Syracuse Police Department leadership, officers, and first responders for reducing crime not just this year but over the longer term. For example, he said shootings with injuries and fatalities are down more than 50 percent this year compared to five- and ten-year averages.
“Violent crime is down 24.6% compared to the five year average. Homicides are down almost 41% year over year and against the five-year average down 4.2%," Walsh said. "A lot of these declines are consistent with what other communities are experiencing. But make no mistake, the specific things that we're doing here in Syracuse are making a difference and in many ways are a model for other communities.”
Walsh said Mayor-elect Sharon Owens and incoming police chief Mark Russin played key roles in establishing several programs aimed at preventing crime. They include an alternative response to people in crisis.
“Understanding that many of the folks that SPD is engaging with are dealing with mental health issues, with substance use issues," Walsh said. "Creating new programs like the Police Athletic Activities League, making sure that our young people have outlets where they can have fun and be safe and be kids. Our Mayor's Office to Reduce Gun Violence really putting a focus on engaging with those really high-risk individuals that I think many people were inclined to just give up on.”
Walsh said it’s gratifying to see the benefits of programs that engage with mostly younger people and get them on the right path. At the same time, he said he learned during his eight years that they can’t let their guard down, and he has no doubt mayor-elect Owens will continue efforts to reduce crime.
