Safer Streets: Governor Hochul Announces Continued Declines in Crime Across New York

Governor Kathy Hochul today updated New Yorkers on continued reductions in crime and gun violence across the state, highlighting historic declines in shooting incidents, shooting victims and murders, as well as significant reductions in index and violent crime so far in 2026. The 28 police departments participating in the state's Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) initiative reported a 7 percent index crime decline and 48 percent drop in murders during the first five months of 2026, the lowest of any year since 2017. Meanwhile, New York City experienced its safest summer on record so far for shooting incidents, shooting victims and murders, including 6.6 percent reduction in major crime.

"Public safety has been my top priority since taking office, and we continue to deliver measurable results with record low crime across New York," said Governor Kathy Hochul. "We've invested nearly $4 billion in public safety and are seeing historic lows in shootings, murders and major crime because of these investments and the dedicated law enforcement officers who show up every day to keep their communities safe. We'll continue making these strategic investments and fighting for the safety of every family across our state."

Between January and May 2026, 28 police departments participating in GIVE reported the fewest index crimes and violent crimes, including murders and robberies, during the first five months of any year since 2017. There were 29,654 index crimes, a 7 percent decrease from 31,752 during the same period last year, and 4,617 violent crimes, a 1 percent decrease from 4,644. Murder declined 48 percent, with 41 reported, while robbery declined 17 percent, with 830 reported. Property crime also declined 8 percent, with reductions in motor vehicle theft, burglary and larceny.

Eleven GIVE police departments reported double-digit percentage decreases in index crime: Elmira, Greece, Hempstead, Jamestown, Kingston, Newburgh, Poughkeepsie, Rochester, Spring Valley, Suffolk County and Utica. Nine GIVE departments - Elmira, Greece, Hempstead, Ithaca, Kingston, Lackawanna, Newburgh, Poughkeepsie and Watertown - also reported double-digit percentage decreases in violent crime.

Administered by the state Division of Criminal Justice Services, GIVE funds personnel, overtime, technology, and equipment, and DCJS provides focused training and technical assistance, so participating agencies can address shootings, shooting deaths and firearm-related violent crimes.

Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado said, "These sustained declines across GIVE communities mean fewer lives lost, fewer people victimized and more New Yorkers feeling secure in their neighborhoods. This progress reflects the tireless work of our local partners and Governor Hochul's continued investment in the proven strategies, technology and training they need to address crime. We remain committed to building on these results and making every community safer."

Mayor of Spring Valley, Schenley Vital said, "I want to sincerely thank Governor Hochul for her unwavering support and the continued investment through the GIVE initiative. These efforts have made a real difference in our community, leading to a significant decrease in crime and helping to create a safer environment for our residents and families. The progress we've seen is a testament to her strong leadership and commitment to public safety. We are grateful for her dedication, and we look forward to working together to build on these positive results and keep Spring Valley a secure and thriving community for everyone."

New York City also continued to experience historic reductions in gun violence during summer 2026, marking an eight-month stretch of record low shooting incidents, shooting victims and murders. From June 1 through August 31, there were 195 shooting incidents, 249 shooting victims and 66 murders: each the fewest recorded during that period in New York City Police Department (NYPD) history. The 195 shooting incidents were 32 fewer than the previous record low of 227 set in 2025, while the 249 shooting victims were 44 fewer than the previous record low of 293 set in 2018. The 66 murders were 12 fewer than the previous record low of 78 set in 2017.

Major crime in New York City also declined 6.6 percent in August, with 10,276 offenses reported compared to 11,000 in August 2025. Year to date, the Bronx led the city in major-crime reductions, with an 11.9 percent decline.