Although 2013 ended with a homicide in Sharp-Leadenhall on December 31st, South Baltimore’s Sector 4 saw a significant decrease in crime in 2013. Sector 4 includes the neighborhoods of Otterbein, Sharp-Leadenhall, Federal Hill, Federal Hill South, SBNA, Riverside, Locust Point, Ridgely’s Delight, Stadium Area, and portions of Barre Circle.
According to the Southern District of the Baltimore City Police Department, compared to 2012, robbery was down 16%, aggravated assault was down 33%, burglary was down 13%, larceny from auto was down 11%, but auto theft was up 13%. Overall total violent crime was down 21%, total property crime was down 7%, and total part one crime was down 9%. There was one shooting in Sharp-Leadenhall in both 2012 and 2013.
With an increase in auto theft, the Department increased juvenile enforcement efforts especially in late fall near Digital Harbor High School. Juvenile arrests were up 15% in 2013, which was believed to be a major contributor to the double digit decreases in the other major crime categories.
“In summary, we ended the year on a terrible note with a murder in Sharp-Leadenhall, but the double digit decreases in violent crime are very promising. The numbers reflect the hard work and dedication of Sector 4 officers and the tremendous community support we feel from South Baltimore and the neighboring community groups,” said Southern District Major Ian Dombroski.
A familiar face will also be returning to the Southern District this year as Officer Kevin “Butterbean” Vaught of the Neighborhood Services Unit is back to full duty after a long and painful recovery from a car accident in January 2012.