Merced's police chief working to ease public fears

MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) -- The Merced Police Department is stressing the importance of community crime prevention programs.

Chief Norm Andrade spoke to the city council about that Monday night. His presentation comes as Merced is dealing with a rise in murder cases. The city has had 14 homicides so far this year, compared to five last year and nine in 2012.

Authorities say several factors may be to blame including the economy and the early release of county jail inmates since the state's prison realignment program took effect.

Capt. Tom Trindad with the Merced Police Department said, "I do think that you've got more people that are criminally prone are now back onto the streets so of course that can increase it."

The department is also dealing with low staffing levels. It went from more than 100 officers in 2007 to just over 80 today. They're asking residents to help fill the void by taking part in neighborhood watch groups and other community led intervention programs.

Watch the video for extended coverage from Action News reporter Sara Sandrik.