The Sarasota Police Department is excited to announce a historic drop in Part I crime in 2023. For the first time since 1967, no homicide was reported in the City of Sarasota for a full calendar year. In 2022, the Sarasota Police Department investigated seven homicides.

The reductions in murders are part of a more significant decline in violent crimes. According to Sarasota Police records, the reduction in Part I crimes from 2022 to 2023 is the greatest drop in the City since 1999. Part I crimes include homicide, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny, and vehicle theft. These types of crimes plummeted more than 16 percent in 2023.

The entire department, including sworn and civilian staff, filled the city commission chambers Tuesday morning to celebrate this accomplishment. The presentation can be viewed on the City of Sarasota's Facebook page. 

"I want to highlight the rigorous training that every police officer undergoes to fulfill their duties," stated Mayor Liz Alpert. "Each officer dedicates countless hours to training, exams, and ongoing education to progress in their roles and maintain their effectiveness. It's important for the public to understand that they are continually striving to be the most effective protectors of our city, and we wholeheartedly support our officers in these endeavors."

"I wish to underscore our unwavering support for the Sarasota Police Department,” remarked City Manager Marlon Brown. “The City Commission and I remain steadfast in backing our officers, empowering them to safeguard our community and strive towards making our city the safest it can be. Congratulations to Chief Troche, the women and men of SPD and to our citizens who are working together to build and foster relationships that are having data-proven positive impacts on our city.”

“We are excited to share this data proving our beautiful city is safer than it has been in years, and these motivated men and women that make up our agency contributed in some way,” said Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche. “We are utilizing all of our resources to not only solve crimes, but to prevent them from ever occurring.”

Please see the attached presentation below for additional 2023 crime statistics and contributing factors. 

2023 SPD Crime Reduction Factors_Presentation to City Commission_02.20.24