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Officials: Chester homicide rate dropped 38 percent in 2018

Published January 29, 2019 1:02pm EST

FOX 29 Philadelphia

CHESTER, Pa. (FOX 29) - Homicides in the city of Chester dropped 38 percent in 2018, Mayor Thaddeus Kirkland and the Chester Police Department announced Tuesday.

"Last year we ended the year with 18 recorded homicides. That is the lowest number since 2006," said Kirkland. "Let's be clear--any life lost is one too many; however, we are making strides."

All crimes, with the exception of burglaries and vehicle thefts, decreased, according to police. Rapes saw the biggest drop, with a 52 percent decrease in 2018 when compared to 2017.

Officials also announced the release of the Chester Police Department mobile app, which offers important news and resources to the public, including a feature to submit crime tips anonymously.

The app can be downloaded for free via iPhone and Android app stores.