MIDDLETOWN – Part 1 violent crime has dropped 13 percent during the first six months of 2009 compared to the same period last year. There were 73 violent crimes through June 2009 compared to 84 during the first half of 2008.

Robberies were down 27 percent with 27 robberies through June of this year, compared to 37 one year earlier. “The drop in robberies is a promising sign that things are improving,” said Police Chief Matthew Byrne.

The chief also gave “much of the credit” to the public for reporting crimes in a timely fashion and making an effort to look out for their neighbors.

Byrne noted that in recent times the department has expanded its community policing efforts with the addition of a dedicated Park Circle patrol, creation of a neighborhood enhancement officer, and the addition of a Spanish speaking officer to improve downtown patrols.

Arrests are up by 16 percent this year with the city’s 77 officers “extremely diligent, proactive, and determined to improve the quality of life in our community.”