I am pleased to report to the residents of New Haven that crime continues to fall in our city.  The partnership forged between the Department of Police Service and the neighborhood residents has contributed to this decline.

Your Police Department has won national and international awards.  Two prestigious organizations, the National League of Cities and the International Association of Chiefs of Police, have recognized the Youth Oriented Policing philosophies adopted by the police.  The basis for this philosophy rests in understanding that it takes more than law enforcement to create a safe and caring community for its residents, especially its children.  Without the commitment of New Haven Public Schools and the Yale Child Study, our programs would not have the success here or the professional acclaim.

Additionally, the policing community has noted the New Haven Police Academy for its innovative outreach efforts in recruiting women and minorities as well as for its progressive curriculum.  The Academy is a model for the education of community policing officers.

There are many other challenges that require our continued determination and community partnerships to increase safety and reduce crime.  We are working to reduce gun violence with federal and state agencies.  The use and demand for illegal substances negatively impacts neighborhood safety as well as the general quality of peoples' lives and we are working collaboratively with health and social service agencies to accomplish this goal.  The high rate of motor vehicle accidents remain a problem.  Each of us must take personal responsibility for our own conduct and driving habits as insurance rates are affected by these habits.

Our ability to meet these and other challenges are only limited by our commitment to strengthen our neighborhoods and our city.