L.A. Sheriff's Dept. reports decline in crime

LOS ANGELES As of July 31, preliminary data shows that criminal homicides have dropped by 21.43 percent compared to the same time period last year. There were 127 /*homicides*/ in 2009 compared to 98 in 2010.

Compared to five years ago, the number of homicides has decreased by almost 54 percent.

Sheriff Lee Baca emphasized that some areas saw an even greater drop. The Compton station reported a drop in homicides by almost 42 percent while the Lynwood area saw a 33 percent decrease.

Overall, reported crimes are down 3.75 percent compared to last year. Those include violent crimes and serious property crimes.

Three sheriff's stations saw significant decreases in overall violent crimes.

/*Marina del Rey*/ had an almost 42 percent drop, Walnut saw a 34 percent decrease while the overall number of crimes in San Dimas fell by 25 percent.