In a recent government meeting, officials reported a notable decrease in gun violence in Rochester, with year-to-date statistics revealing 114 shooting incidents and 40 homicides as of August 31st. This marks a downward trend compared to previous years, with the current homicide rate falling below the ten-year average of 43 per year. Authorities emphasized their commitment to reducing these numbers further.

In August alone, law enforcement seized 46 firearms, including 40 handguns and six long guns, five of which were classified as ghost guns. This brings the total number of illegal guns removed from the streets to 401 for the year, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat gun violence.

However, discussions during the meeting raised concerns about the origins of these firearms. Officials expressed a desire for more comprehensive data on where seized guns are sourced, particularly emphasizing that over 50% of crime guns in Monroe County originate locally. This information is crucial for targeting problematic gun dealers and enhancing preventive measures against gun trafficking.

The need for improved tracking and reporting of gun sources was underscored, with suggestions for more frequent and detailed reports to the community. Officials are currently working on legislation to make gun trace data reporting a regular occurrence, aiming to better inform the public and law enforcement strategies.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue addressing the root causes of gun violence and to enhance collaboration with federal partners, including the ATF, to ensure effective monitoring of local gun dealers. The officials reiterated the importance of transparency and data-driven approaches in the ongoing fight against gun-related crime in Rochester.