Annual statistics compiled by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office shows an overall drop in crime during 2008. Compared to 2007, the overall crime rate is down more than nine percent county-wide. In addition, total violent crimes including murder, robbery, and sex offenses saw a decrease of nearly 17 percent.

Total non-violent crimes such as burglary and theft fell by more than six percent county-wide. Combined, total violent and non-violent offenses are down nearly eight percent county-wide. Total arrests are up by more than three percent compared to 2007.

Sheriff Mike Scott believes the drop in crime can be attributed to the efforts of the brave men and women who represent the agency. He finds the numbers encouraging, but says a lot of work needs to be don.

“Our agency will continue its policy of taking a sustained, aggressive stance on fighting crime,” Scott said. “We’ll continue to push traffic stops, drug arrests, and efforts to make Lee County a very uncomfortable place for offenders to reside. We’ll continue to fight for the good of the community.”

Breakdown of how each district fared for overall crime:

Alpha (North) District – 8.38 percent (decrease)

Bravo (East) District – 3.2 percent (increase)

Charlie (West) District – 17.41 percent (decrease) Fort Myers Beach

Delta (South) District – 10.87 percent (decrease)

Echo (Central) District – 14.44 percent (decrease)

Gulf (Island Coast) District – 7.85 percent (decrease)

-Provided by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.