News Summary
Shreveport’s recent crime statistics show a promising decline in overall crime, including a significant drop in homicides and auto thefts. Despite these improvements, reports of sex crimes have increased, raising concerns within the community. Local leaders emphasize the importance of community vigilance to ensure safety for all residents. The positive trends in crime statistics are encouraging, indicating a potential for a safer Shreveport in the future.
Shreveport’s Crime Statistics Show Improvement Amidst Recent Tragedies
Shreveport, a city known for its vibrant culture and community spirit, is welcoming some good news, despite recent incidents casting a shadow over the otherwise positive statistics presented by Police Chief Wayne Smith. During a recent City Council meeting held on January 28, 2025, statistics highlighted a decline in overall crime levels across the city.
More Positives in January
The numbers reveal that homicides in Shreveport saw a decrease, with only three recorded in January 2025, down from five during the same month last year. This exciting drop signifies a significant improvement, marking the lowest number of homicides recorded in a five-year period that began with nine tragedies in January 2021.
Shreveport residents may find comfort in knowing that reports of shots fired also saw a significant decline from 228 in 2024 to 169 in 2025. Additionally, the number of shootings in January decreased sharply from 33 in 2023 to 23 in 2024, and only 17 have been reported through January 28, 2025.
Common Crimes See a Dropping Trend
The city also reported great news concerning auto thefts, with vehicle thefts decreasing to 132 in 2025 from 193 the previous year. Robberies have taken a similar downward trend, falling from 11 in 2024 to just 3 in 2025. Burglaries also lessened significantly, with 162 occurring in 2025 compared to 202 in 2024.
Rising Concerns Over Sex Crimes
However, it’s essential to note that certain categories of reported crime tell a different story. There has been an increase in reported sex crimes, with numbers jumping from 16 in 2024 to 30 in 2025. This rise in reports is concerning and highlights the ongoing need for community awareness and vigilance.
A Closer Look at Recent Homicides
In connection with these events, authorities arrested Kelvin Lewis, 38, in Arlington, Texas. He is accused of being the trigger man in the Walgreens incident, which led to the death of 67-year-old Billy Jamison. A former pastor and described as a gentle soul, Jamison was delivering pharmaceuticals when he lost his life during a robbery.
Community Support and Future Action
As police continue to investigate, they are also searching for another suspect, Larry Lewis, 44, who has a long criminal history dating back to 1997. In light of recent events, Caddo-Shreveport Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest in Jamison’s case.
Local leaders and the City Council have expressed condolences to Jamison’s family and highlighted the importance of community involvement in tackling violence. The shift in crime statistics could lead to a safer, more connected community, but it requires everyone’s participation to ensure lasting change.
A Bright Outlook for Shreveport
Amidst mixed news, Shreveport can undoubtedly celebrate the positive trends in overall crime statistics. With a community that stands together, there’s hope that these numbers will continue to improve, allowing Shreveport to flourish as a safe haven for residents and visitors alike.
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Additional Resources
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate: Crime Down Despite Dramatic Homicides
- KTBS: Possible Suspect Identified in Walgreens Homicide
- KSLA: Man Fatally Shot During Walgreens Robbery Remembered By Family
- Google Search: Shreveport Crime Statistics
- Wikipedia: Crime in the United States
