Holyoke: Zero murders in 2012

HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - For the first time in decades, the city of Holyoke went an entire calendar year without recording a single murder.

It's been 25 years since the city went a whole year without a murder.

At 10:00AM Thursday, Mayor Alex Morse and Police Chief James Neiswanger will hold a news conference at city hall to talk about the achievement.

The city is crediting an increase in patrols, resources and tactics for keeping people safe.

The Holyoke Police recently deployed a mobile police unit, introduced police dogs, and purchased tasers for the department.

Mayor Alex Morse released this statement to 22News. "I commend Chief Neiswanger and all the men and women at the Holyoke Police Department for keeping Holyoke safe. While we still have more work to do, we are no doubt headed in the right direction."

Police in Springfield are also making strides.

In 2012 there were 12 murders , compared to 19 in 2011.

The Springfield Police say their Blue Knight community deployment program, along with their Forest Park BADGE Unit and North End Initiative have helped reduce crime.