Sarasota County's murders double and crime rises
Quote Originally Posted by Jason Witz, Assistant Englewood Editor
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 reported an overall decrease in crime.

According to the FDLE, Charlotte County had decreases in robbery, aggravated assault, larceny and burglary cases.
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