New York crime rate hits new low - Mayor Giuliani

Crime levels in New York have plunged in the wake of the World Trade Centre attacks, it was announced today.

The one time murder capital of the US now one of its safest cities, with crime hitting a 40-year low following the terrorist attacks.

New York mayor Rudolph Giuliani today said there had been just four murders in the previous week, compared to 10 in the same week last year.

In the past when there have as many as eight homicides in a day.

‘‘This remains the safest large city in America. It has become significantly safer,’’ said Mr Giuliani.

The mayor unveiled the figures in a bid to reassure people concerned about visiting the city or going about their normal business.

He said overall crime in the week ending last Sunday fell 18% on the previous year, when it was then at its lowest level in 35 years.

‘‘The reduction in crime in the city is dramatic over and above an already much reduced base.

‘‘People should feel every confidence in moving about, going about, that you are having as much safety as it is possible to have.

‘‘We are trying to get people to feel safe. What is the point in not feeling safe? Life is risky. These events were once in our country’s history.’’