September 26, 2007, Canton, MI - This month the FBI released its annual report of crime statistics for 2006. Using figures from this report, crimes for communities in the metro-Detroit area with populations over 50,000 were broken down into two categories: Property Crimes (burglary, larceny, motor vehicle theft and arson), and Violent Crimes (murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault). Canton and Troy had the lowest number of violent crimes, with only 1 victim per 1,000 residents; and Canton had the second lowest per capita in property crimes with 20 victims per 1,000 residents.

Canton experienced a slight increase in property crimes up 6% from 2005, but also had a 30% decrease in violent crimes from the previous year. Canton (along with Farmington Hills) had the lowest number of overall crimes per capita in 2006, with 21 victims per 1,000 residents.

"Canton continues to be one of the safest communities in the metro-Detroit area," said Canton Public Safety Director John Santomauro. "The police department utilizes a proactive methodology of policing and will continue to refine its working partnership with all facets of the community."

For more information on Canton’s crime statistics contact the Records Bureau at 734/394-5410 or visit Canton Public Safety’s website at www.cantonpublicsafety.org.

*See attachment for metro-Detroit community comparisons.

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