On October 25, 2023, the State Public Security Department of São Paulo announced a decrease in intentional homicides.
It showed 238 cases in September, a 5.9% drop from last year. From January to September, 1,931 homicides occurred.
This is 9.6% less than the same period in 2022. This is also the lowest count since records began in 2001.
However, rape cases are increasing. In September, 1,249 rapes were reported. This is slightly more than 1,237 cases last year.
From January to September, 10,803 cases were reported, an 8.6% increase from 2022.
The department thinks rape is often not reported. So, the actual numbers may be higher. They also think more victims might be reporting now, which could explain the increase.
Robberies leading to death also fell. There were 16 cases in September, down from 19 last year.
The department credits this drop to better policing and helpful public policies. One such policy is SPVida, a system that helps police analyze crime data.
In contrast, theft is rising again. September had 48,174 thefts, a 3.8% increase from last year. This year has seen a 3.3% increase overall, with 431,140 cases so far.
Lastly, general robberies are down. There were 17,891 cases in September, a 10.4% decrease from last year.
For the year so far, robberies have dropped by 3.9%, with 171,593 cases reported.
Background
In context, São Paulo has had a history of high crime rates, making these numbers noteworthy.
The steady decline in homicides shows the impact of ongoing efforts to improve public safety.
These efforts include better police training and new public policies. SPVida is one such policy that has been impactful.
It allows for quick and effective data analysis, aiding law enforcement in decision-making.
However, the increase in rape cases is concerning. It highlights the need for continued vigilance and targeted interventions.
Both the rise in theft and the ongoing issue of underreported rape cases indicate areas where more work is needed.