OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — When Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer took over the department’s top post in 2012, the agency was struggling for ways to curb rampant gun violence. Two years later, homicides have dropped dramatically and tips from the public have helped solve some of Omaha’s most violent crimes.

Much of the credit is going to Schmaderer and his push to improve the department’s relationship with the city’s most crime-ridden sections.

The effort has involved weekly meetings by police with community organizations, churches and individuals. Police also host neighborhood events and community training sessions.

Since 2012, homicides have dropped from 41 through September 2012 to 22 through this September.

Schmaderer notes the percentage of homicides considered solved by police has climbed from 46 percent in 2012 to 81 percent so far this year.