Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez, along with Commissioner Jose “Pepe” Diaz and Miami-Dade Police Department Director Robert Parker, announced the 2007 year-end crime statistics for unincorporated Miami-Dade County, on February 13, 2008, at the Miami-Dade County Police Department Headquarters.  Officials announced that violent crime continues to decline throughout unincorporated Miami-Dade County.  Forcible sex offenses are down 12%; aggravated assaults are down 11%; and murders are down 9% from last year.  

“Every day, the men and women of the Miami-Dade Police Department risk their lives to protect our community, and their sacrifices help keep us safe,” Mayor Alvarez said.  “Their dedication has paid off, and it is reflected in the latest crime statistics.  Despite our successes, we must never let our guard down.  Prevention, intervention and education are the keys to decreasing crime.”

During the news conference, Mayor Alvarez also revealed the successful results from the Gun Bounty Program, which makes it possible for residents to get a $1,000 reward for turning in someone with an illegal gun.  To date, 80 illegal guns have been seized, which resulted in 43 arrests.

Pictured from left to right: Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez; Miami-Dade Police Department Director Robert Parker; and Miami-Dade County Commissioner Jose “Pepe” Diaz.

(Photos by Ricardo Garcia)