DELANO,CA -- So far this year, Delano has had three homicides compared to this time last year where they had two.
Police say the number of assaults have jumped to 159 so far in 2014 from 112 this time last year.
Delano police say unsecured property is also a big problem.
"We are seeing an increase in our unsecured property thefts such as auto theft, property left outside the home, garages opened, things like this," said Chief Mark Derosia, Delano Police Department.
But despite the increases in some crimes, Delano has seen a 26.5 percent decrease in part one crimes, meaning there were 280 less felonies in Delano compared to the same time last year.
Assemblymember Rudy Salas and the Delano Police Department put on a public safety town hall meeting Saturday morning telling residents, there is strength in numbers.
"It's really that partnership that we want to foster between the community and the police department," said Assemblymember Rudy Salas.
Chief Derosia says a way to combat crime is by forming neighborhood watch groups. Delano currently has 41.
Police department officials hope Saturday's meeting inspires residents to start their own.
"Traditionally, having more eyes and ears in the community, the police cannot be every place, and having people that are aware of who their neighbors are, who belongs in the area. What is the standard activity that's going on throughout the day? Then they can observe things that are unusual," said Chief Derosia.
Local law enforcement is reminding residents to attend National Night Out on August 5 at Cesar Chavez Park in Delano. The event aims to bring crime and drug prevention awareness.