2012 was the deadliest year in the City of Fort Myers.
The number of murders hit 24.
As we head into the new year, city leaders has hope that 2013 will bring peace to Fort Myers.
 
"Murder is no accident. Murder is caused and planned," says Councilman, Johnny Streets Jr.

2012 was a year unlike any other, the City of Fort Myers fell victim to murder after murder, making it the deadliest year on record.

"Violence stops productivity, tears down schools, disrupts communities and it gives everyone a sad feeling," says Streets.

Most of those 24 murders are still unsolved.

"If witnesses would come forward that we have spoken to, that wish to remain anonymous, I could clear half of our homicides," says  Fort Myers Police Chief, Doug Baker.

But despite a violent 2012, Council Member Johnny Streets Jr. is confident 2013 will be different.

"I'm more hopeful in 2013 because people are still working to do the right thing."

He believes the unfortunate events in Newtown, Connecticut, will pave the way for a better year, locally and nationally.

Those kids had no warning. That should kick start us, we can do better and we will," Streets explained.

He says 2013 should be the year focused on mental illness.

"It's mental, it's not always criminal, it's mental. We take criminal and lock them away and we allow them to get out and we haven't treated them or cured the disease.

Fort Myers is listed as #43 on the list of the top 100 most dangerous cities in the U.S.
Councilman Streets says, he would like to see our city off this list this year.
In order for that to happen there needs to be a collaborative effort with law enforcement and the city.