NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

April 16th, 2018

Response to Recent Media Article on Topeka’s Violent Crime

The Topeka Police Department would like to respond to the recent news articles stating
that the city of Topeka ranks 32nd in the nation as one of the most violent cities. We first look at
the source of this article, which is the FBI’s 2017 January-June Preliminary Uniform Crime
report. In reviewing the FBI’s report, the bureau initially states the following;

Caution against ranking

Figures used in this Report were submitted voluntarily by law enforcement agencies throughout the
country. Individuals using these tabulations are cautioned against drawing conclusions by making direct
comparisons between cities. Comparisons lead to simplistic and/or incomplete analyses that often create
misleading perceptions adversely affecting communities and their residents. Valid assessments are
possible only with careful study and analysis of the range of unique conditions affecting each local law
enforcement jurisdiction. It is important to remember that crime is a social problem and, therefore, a
concern of the entire community. In addition, the efforts of law enforcement are limited to factors within
its control. The data user is, therefore, cautioned against comparing statistical data of individual agencies.
Further information on this topic can be obtained in Uniform Crime Reporting Statistics: Their Proper Use.

Then looking at the statistics for the state of Kansas, the FBI’s 2017 January-June
Preliminary Uniform Crime report shows that out of the 600+ cities in the state of Kansas only
3 cities participated in reporting crime data. Those three cities are Olathe, Overland Park and
Topeka.

The Topeka Police Department reports crime data to promote transparency.

 We are committed to making Topeka one of the safest cities in America. Commitment can
be seen with the several new initiatives Chief Cochran has put into place, to include;

 Partnering with Mayor De La Isla’s Domestic Violent Task Force

 Working with the Center for Safety and Empowerment, YWCA
 Working with CrimeStoppers and implementing the “GunStoppers” program to get
illegal firearms off our streets
 The creation of the Community Outreach Bureau to enhance police and community
relations
 Adding staffing to the Homicide Unit

The work of our officers and law enforcement partners is also seen in the crime statistics
from the 1st quarter of 2018 in comparison to the 1st quarter in 2017.

There has been a 37% decrease in violent crime from the 1st quarter of 2018 in
comparison to the 1st quarter 2017.

Chief Cochran would be happy to discuss further the great things the Topeka Police
Department is doing to make Topeka a safe community for all. If you would like to set up a time
to speak with Chief Cochran please contact me.

Lieutenant Andrew Beightel

Public Information Officer

Topeka Police Department

320 S. Kansas Suite 100

Topeka, KS 66603

Beightel@Topeka.org