"Overall, reports of serious crime were down 2.8 percent," said Marlin. "It’s an encouraging indication that the rest of the year will see a continuation of this positive trend in which crime has decreased in six out of the last seven years."
 

Marlin said reports of arson decreased 8 percent, robbery declined 7.1 percent, burglary was down 6.1 percent, and criminal sexual assault fell 4.7 percent. Aggravated assault/battery declined 3.2 percent and murder declined 3.1 percent, while motor vehicle theft and theft were down 2.3 percent and 1.3 percent respectively.
 

"Every category of serious crime dropped," Marlin said. "It is significant because fewer crimes translates to less pain and suffering and elevated quality of life for Illinoisans."
 

The report also includes totals of supplemental crime statistics -- crimes against children, domestic violence, hate crimes, and crimes against school personnel.
 

January thru June 1998 January thru June 1997 Percent Change Crimes Against School Personnel 1,169 1,170 -0.1% Crimes Against Children 18,971 18,975 0% Domestic Violence 64,725 66,366 -2.5% Hate Crimes 188 205 -8.3%