Eastchester REVIEW THE
October 13, 2023 | Vol. 11, Number 39 | www.eastchesterreview.com
Major crimes are down in Westchester: report
SHUT DOWN ‘D’
Gianluca Santarelli lays a hit on Eastchester’s Aidan Schultz on Friday, Oct. 6, 2023. Santarelli and the Huskies kept the Eagles out of the endzone as Harrison topped their visitors 7-0. For story, see page 16. Photo/MIke Smith
County launches Connect Westchester
Connect Westchester is Westchester County’s Office of Economic Development’s new initiative to bridge the digital divide through providing essential digital resources, education and affordable internet access to low-income residents. This new program will utilize partnerships with the STEM Alliance, The Westchester County Association, and the Westchester Library System to help all members of our community make a significant step towards achieving digital equity. County Executive George Latimer said: “For a thriving community, digital literacy and internet access are not just luxuries; they are necessities. From online banking, to job applications, healthcare enrollment,
and educational pursuits – those who lack access to the internet are at a disadvantage. Connect Westchester is a continuation of our efforts to level the playing field and increase equity for all.” Senator Schumer said: “Hats off to Westchester County for taking Connect Westchester to the next level and further closing the digital divide. Affordable high-speed internet access is a necessity, not a luxury, and is essential for everything from work to school to healthcare, which is why I was proud to deliver the federal funding that seeded efforts in the Hudson Valley to close the digital divide.” Schumer added, “I am proud to have delivered federal funding to boost equitable broad-
band accessibility in Westchester County, and strongly support this county initiative to get closer to providing top notch broadband access to all communities.” Westchester County Legislator and Chairman Vedat Gashi said: “In our interconnected world, access to information and education should be a right, not a privilege. The County Board of Legislators is proud to support this initiative and help bridge the digital divide.” Westchester County Office of Economic Development Director Bridget Gibbons said: “A digitally skilled workforce is a necessary foundation for a thriving economy.
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Crime rates in Westchester County have once more shown a decrease, according to the latest report from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services. Westchester County Executive George Latimer said the credit for this positive trend goes to the dedicated work of our law enforcement personnel, and our community partners. A detailed analysis of crime data between 2017 and 2022 demonstrates a notable reduction in unlawful activities. Total Index Crime – Down 5.2% 2017- 1,180.6 2022 – 1,119.2 Total Violent Crime – Down 15.7% 2017 -199.1 2022-167.7 Property Crime Total – Down 3.04% 2017- 981.5 2022- 951.6 Murder – Down 47.3% 2017- 1.9 2022 – 1.0 Rape – Down 28.9% 2017- 13.8 2022 - 9.8 Robbery – Down 27.4% 2017 – 61.2 2022 – 44.4 Aggravated Assault – Down 7.9% 2017 – 122.2 2022 – 112.5 Burglary – Down 25.2% 2017 – 103.0 2022 – 77.0 Larceny – Down 2.97% 2017 – 818.8 2022 – 794.4
Latimer said: “Once again, it is clear that our dedication to combatting crime in Westchester County remains steadfast. The Westchester County Department of Public Safety is funded at the highest level ever because of my commitment to keeping this County safety for us all. While certain regions in the state are grappling with unfortunate spikes in crime rates, Westchester County is once again maintaining our consistent decline in criminal activities. I credit this encouraging trend to the dedication and courage of our law enforcement personnel.” The Westchester County Department of Public Safety conducted a thorough analysis, comparing crime data from 2017 and 2022. The findings revealed a significant decrease in crime rates, demonstrating the effectiveness of law enforcement efforts and community collaborations. Detailed statistics indicate a substantial decline in various types of criminal activities, providing a safer environment for residents and visitors alike. Westchester County Department of Public Safety Commissioner Terrance Raynor said: “These encouraging statistics serve as a testament to the tireless work of law enforcement officers, who consistently strive to protect and serve the community. Through their unwavering commitment, Westchester County has witnessed a remarkable decrease in crime, fostering a sense of security and well-being among its residents.”