Sheriff: Putnam Is Safest County in State

Sheriff Donald B. Smith Donald B. Smith says new statistics from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Service show Putnam is "the safest county in New York State."

Smith points to the 2012 County Index Crime Counts and Rates per 100,000 Population, a document available online here. It shows—for the third consecutive year, according to Sheriff's officials—Putnam had the lowest total index crime rate.

"The state report further reflects that the Putnam County index crime rate has declined each year since 2009," a statement released Tuesday reads. "Since Sheriff Smith first took office as Putnam County Sheriff in 2002, the county’s violent crime rate has decreased 45.9 percent, its property crime rate has decreased 33.6 percent, and the overall index crime rate has been reduced by 34.3 percent. "

Local numbers decreased, despite an "alarming increase in the number of people affected by substance abuse and mental health issues," Smith said. He also noted the bad economy, which "tends to drive crime upwards."

Deputies patrol Putnam, as do state troopers and members of town and village police department. Smith said the relationship between law enforcement agencies, fire departments and ambulance corps is an "exceptionally cohesive" one. 

"Everyone who lives and works within the county shares the credit for keeping crime low in Putnam," he said. "Caring citizens, active houses of worship, outstanding civic organizations and schools, and businesses have supported law enforcement efforts in ensuring that Putnam County remains a safe place to live, work, and raise a family."