Wichita Police Chief Norman Williams says criminal activity increased by 2% last year. He says larcenies account for one of the biggest spikes.
There are some good numbers, though. Gang crime hit a historic low. Four drive-by shootings were reported last year. That's the lowest number ever. There were seven gang-related homicides. That's the second-lowest ever.
Chief Williams credits the community with bringing those numbers down.
"What we've done, is build relationships with our citizens, neighborhood residents or the business community." Chief Williams said. "It's allowed us to leverage our resources when it comes to eyes and ears in this community."
Traffic fatalities are also down in 2012. 24 traffic deaths, versus 26 the year before.
Williams says his department will remain focused on traffic safety to keep those numbers decreasing.
