In murder cases, one thing is true: The victim normally knew the killer. What is more interesting is that most murders that occur in Memphis aren’t as random as people would expect that they are. As of Sept. 17, 2021, there have been 218 homicides in the city. Of those, few are random.
Instead, the murders tend to be linked to arguments. They tend to be crimes of passion, which means that the people who were arguing or fighting very likely knew each other in one way or another. According to one Memphis Police Department Lieutenant, “No one knows how to push your buttons like the people who know you,” and those people are the most likely to end up involved in a murder case.
Memphis is handling an increase in homicides
It is believed that Memphis will see another record-breaking year of murders, which isn’t positive. This high murder rate is keeping homicide investigators busy as they work through the cases. The Memphis Police Department has a clearance rate, or the rate at which they solve these cases, that sits at around 65%. This is higher than the national average, but it still leaves many unanswered questions.
Avoiding the situation can reduce murders due to conflict
The MPD Lieutenant suggests walking away from arguments and disputes to avoid homicide. By walking away, there is a lesser chance that tempers will flare or that people will end up involved in an altercation.
What should you do if you’re involved in a murder case?
If you’re accused of homicide or murder, it’s important that you have a strong defense built up as soon as you can. The charges are serious, and you could face heavy fines and imprisonment. Capital punishment is also legal in Tennessee, even though it may not be used as often as in some other states.
For a better outcome for a defendant, the best option is to look into a strong defense. Whether or not you committed this crime, you need to take the allegations seriously to protect your best interests and your freedoms as an American citizen.
