Stockton’s homicide total in 2021 went down compared to the previous year, police said.

According to the city’s monthly crime data report, the total number of criminal homicides in 2021 was 39 compared to 56 in 2020.

Officer Joseph Silva said several factors contributed to the decrease in numbers, such as officers getting more illegal guns out of the hands of gang members and more community tips to Stockton Crime Stoppers, a program that allows citizens to report a crime or assist law enforcement anonymously.

Silva said the number of domestic homicides, such as domestic violence and child abuse that resulted in a death, also went down in 2021.

“Let us continue supporting and praying for the strength and healing of the families and loved ones impacted by violent crimes,” Stockton Mayor Kevin Lincoln said.

Victoria Franco is a Stockton-based reporter covering the diverse news around the Central Valley as part of the Report for America program. As a Stockton native, Franco is proud to cover stories within her community and report a variety of coverage. She is a San Jose State University alumna with a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism. In her collegiate years she was Managing Editor for the Spartan Daily. From her time at the Spartan Daily she helped lead her staff to California College Media Awards and a General Excellence first place. Victoria encourages readers to email her story tips and ideas at victoria.franco@baycitynews.com.