Violent crime in New Jersey declined 4 percent in 2009 and overall crimes in the state dropped 9 percent from a year before – the lowest figures reported since at least 1999, according to an annual State Police report released this morning. There were 320 murders in New Jersey in 2009, a 15 percent decline from the previous year, and the fewest murders since 2000 when 288 were reported. Other violent crimes including rape and robbery also saw declines from the previous year.

Still, a crime occurred in New Jersey every 2 minutes and 32 seconds, according to State Police statistics. A rape was committed every 8 hours and 25 minutes, though the 1,041 rapes reported was a 4 percent decline from the year before.

There were 23.9 crimes for every 1,000 state residents last year, down from 26.2 the year before. The violent crime rate dropped to 3.1 crimes per 1,000 residents, down from 3.3.

“Our latest crime data shows reductions in just about all major categories of crime. This is testimony to the skill and dedication of the men and women of our law enforcement community,” Attorney General Paula Dow said in a statement. “While I am encouraged by this downward trend in the overall crime index and violent crime, law enforcement will have to continue to work even harder and smarter, especially during this economic crisis facing our state and nation.” Full story in Star Ledger.