Topeka gun-related crime down compared to last year

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Shootings and murders are down in Topeka compared to 2023. 

So far this year, there have been 24 shootings in Topeka, compared to 53 this time last year (Jan. 1- July 15). Eight people have been killed in Topeka this year, compared to 13 this time last year (Jan. 1- July 15).

KSNT 27 News asked Topeka’s lead detective, Captain Jerry Monasmith, what the police department is doing to keep those numbers down.

"We constantly review all of our reports and crime trends," Monasmith said. "Routinely, we have crime strategy meetings where all of the bureaus come together, and we talk about investigative priorities."

Overall, Topeka police say gun crime is down 54% compared to last year. 

The Topeka Police Department offers a program called Citizens Police Academy, which helps you better understand the crime investigation process from start to finish. Classes are held Thursday evenings from Aug. 22- Nov. 7 and applications are open. 

For more crime news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.