The murder rate across Southwest Florida has increased 62 percent from 2006, according to crime statistics released by the state Friday.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement reported a spike in violent crime in 2007, with the number of murders more than tripling in several area counties.

Sarasota County had 21 homicides last year -- an increase of 11. Total crime was up 9.9 percent.

Chuck Lesaltato, Sarasota County Sheriff's Office spokesman, believes the increase has a lot to do with the economy, as more and more residents find themselves jobless. However, he can't explain the murder increase.

"We've probably had one of the busiest years in Sarasota County with homicides," Lesaltato said.

Charlotte County also experienced a rash of murders in 2007, as authorities reported 10 homicides -- an increase of eight.

However, the county was one of the few area's to have a significant decrease in crime.

According to the FDLE, Charlotte County had decreases in robbery, aggravated assault, larceny and burglary cases. Aside from murder, rape was the only crime to exceed the 2006 figures.

Overall, the county had a 12.7 percent decrease in reported crimes from 2006 -- a statistic authorities believe reflects prevention and other initiatives.

"We are extremely pleased that crime in Charlotte County is on a steady decline," said Chief Bill Cameron in a statement. "Crime control is a total community mission, and as long as our citizens and police always work in close partnership, we will continue to push criminals out of Charlotte County and keep them out for good."

Violent crime across the state increased 1.8 percent from 2006, although the change wasn't as high as the 2005-06 spike of 2.9 percent. The number of total murders increased 73 to 1,202.

Most of the crimes listed involved a firearm.

Total robberies had a 24.8 percent increase in gun usage, as the state reported 17,926 incidents. The number of rape cases where a gun was used increased about 21 percent.

Crime in DeSoto County was up more than 18 percent from 2006, although it recorded a lower rate per 100,000 population than the state. But violent crime was up.

The number of aggravated assault cases increased 46 to 221, and murders were up three to four total.

"I wish I could say it didn't go up," said DeSoto County Sheriff Vernon Keen. "I think the economy has contributed."

Crime in Southwest Florida: 2007*

Total number of crimes change (%) from 2006 crimes per 100,000 population change (%) from 2006

County

Charlotte 5,405 -12.7 3,284.0 -15

DeSoto 1,359 +18.5 3,999.1 +15.6

Sarasota 15,978 +9.9 4,178.5 +7.5

Lee 25,951 +11.9 4,214.6 +6.4

State 876,981 +3.2 4,694.7 +1.4

*Does not include offense data for cities, FHP, FWC or DEP

Source: Florida Department of Law Enforcement

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