The preliminary statistics for reported major crimes, which includes murder, forcible rape, aggravated assault, robbery, arson, burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft, dropped 4.6% between 2007 and 2008.

The total number of major crimes reported dropped from 1597 in 2005 to 1036 in 2008, a reduction of 35.13% over a three year period.

In a press release on January 29, 2009, Sheriff Cooke said, “Thanks to better cooperation between law enforcement, other government agencies, and the citizens of Weld County the rates have dropped. Advances in technology and evidence collection techniques have improved the likelihood of an arrest. The Sheriff’s mission statement to improve the quality of life in Weld County has been successful from 2005 through 2008 with fewer major crimes reported each year.”