CMPD Third Quarter Report: Violent, Property and Overall Crime Decrease as Department Tackles Public Perception

Third quarter report highlights an 8% drop in overall crime and a 20% decline in violent offenses.

Charlotte, N.C. – (Wednesday, October 15, 2025) – Today, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) released its third quarter public safety report for January through September 2025, showcasing a substantial decline in crime citywide. The data reveals a notable drop in overall crime, a decrease in violent offenses and continued progress in reducing property-related incidents.

These encouraging trends reflect the department’s commitment to data-driven policing, innovative crime prevention strategies and the unwavering dedication of officers working in close partnership with the community.

Through the first nine months of the year, overall crime has decreased 8% compared to this same time last year. Charlotte experienced a 20% reduction in violent crime, which includes homicides, rapes, robberies and aggravated assaults which encompass shootings. Property crime, which includes residential and commercial burglary, auto theft and larceny, is down 5%.

“Patrol officers are the most visible part of our department. They are in our communities building relationships, deterring crime and providing services to our Charlotte residents. Every day, our officers intervene in disputes, stop crimes in progress and prevent violence without it ever making the news. The progress we’re making in reducing violent crime is the result of strong, ongoing teamwork and we remain committed to a safe Charlotte” said Deputy Chief Jackie Bryley.

Overall, the CMPD saw decreases in the following offenses:

• Homicides are down 24%
• Aggravated assaults are down 19%
• Robberies are down 22%

Proactive measures such as officer-initiated efforts and firearm seizures are up significantly through the first half of the year:

• Officer-initiated efforts are up 18%
• Firearm seizures are up 25%
• Arrests are up 15%

Data alone cannot capture the real impact crime has on victims and their families. While overall and violent crime have both declined significantly, if you are the victim of a crime or know someone who has been victimized, it can shape your perception of safety in Charlotte.

To tackle public perception while addressing areas of opportunity, CMPD recently launched our Entertainment District Unit (EDU) and the CROWN Culture Initiative. The EDU is a specialized, high-visibility proactive policing unit focused on making Uptown and South End nightlife safer. The CROWN Culture Initiative (otherwise known as Center City’s Restoration of Order, Wellness, and Nonviolence) is a focused, high-impact effort through elevated police presence, strict enforcement, and close collaboration with our community partners. The goal with both initiatives is to restore public confidence, reduce crime and reinforce safe, livable streets.

In addition to these focused initiatives, the strategic deployment of Crime Reduction Units (CRUs) in the four patrol service areas is supporting long-term crime reduction. These units work tirelessly to identify and target high-crime areas, reducing victimization and creating a safer community. Previously operating as division-specific teams, CRUs were reorganized on July 5, 2025, as service area-level units for stronger resource deployment.

Since July 2025, CRUs have assisted in 1,256 traffic stops and 450 arrests, seizing 282 firearms and approximately 36,530 grams (over 80 pounds) of narcotics across all 13 divisions.

Despite the encouraging progress in the first nine months of 2025 in reducing overall crime, repeat offenders continue to inflate crime stats and victimization numbers across the city, negatively contributing to the perception of public safety. .

“We continue to see a troubling pattern: a disproportionate number of violent incidents and property crimes are being committed by individuals with extensive criminal histories—many of whom continue to cycle through the justice system without facing meaningful consequences,” said Sergeant Todd Martin of the Southeast Service Area Crime Reduction Unit. “The cycle of catch and release does not reduce crime in our community.”

Inconsistent accountability for repeat offenders—both adults and juveniles—undermines community safety and places an undue burden on victims, neighborhoods and law enforcement resources. Public safety remains a community-wide effort.

Individuals can take simple precautions like locking their vehicles, securing valuables and removing firearms from vehicles. Residents and visitors are encouraged to report suspicious activity by calling 911 or sharing information anonymously calling Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600, using the Charlotte Crime Stoppers P3 Tips Mobile App or by visiting the Charlotte Crime Stoppers website.

Residents and businesses can play a crucial role in reducing and solving crime by participating in the Connect Charlotte program. Residents can confidentially register their security cameras through the program’s secure online portal—enhancing neighborhood awareness and contributing to a stronger, citywide safety network. Businesses can integrate their security systems to enhance safety, improve response times and support investigations.

The CMPD’s 2025 Third Quarter Public Safety Report statistics follow national standards set by the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) summary statistics.

The following statistical breakdown provides an overall snapshot of crime through the Third Quarter of 2025 compared to the Third Quarter of 2024:

• Violent crimes: 4,506 offenses in 2025 compared to 5,622 offenses in 2024.
• Homicides: 62 in 2025 compared to 82 in 2024.
• Aggravated assaults: 3,494 in 2025 compared to 4,311 in 2024.
• Rapes: 127 in 2025 compared to 183 in 2024.
• Robberies: 821 in 2025 compared to 1046 in 2024.
• Property crimes: 26,522 offenses in 2025 compared to 27,974 in 2024
• Residential burglaries: 1,239 in 2025 compared to 1,322 in 2024.
• Commercial burglaries: 1,824 in 2025 compared to 1,751 in 2024
• Larcenies from automobiles: 7,716 in 2025 compared to 7,697 in 2024..
• Vehicle thefts: 4,627 in 2025 compared to 5,850 in 2024.
• Arsons: 96 in 2025 compared to 116 in 2024

Please follow this link to access the graphics and data file shared during the press conference.

Here are a few ways to view the full press conference:

• View the full press conference from our CMPDNews on Facebook
• View the full press conference from our CMPDVidcast on YouTube

Mid-Year Crime Stats Show Promising Decline Citywide

Mid-year report reveals an 8% decrease in overall crime and a remarkable 25% reduction in violent crime

Charlotte, N.C. – (Thursday, July 17, 2025) – Today, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) announced encouraging mid-year public safety statistics for January through June 2025, revealing a notable reduction in overall crime, a dramatic decrease in violent crime and a decline in property crime. These positive trends underscore the effectiveness of CMPD's data-driven strategies, innovative initiatives and the tireless dedication of its officers in collaboration with the Charlotte community.

Through the first two quarters of the year, overall crime has decreased 8% compared to this same time last year. Charlotte experienced a 25% reduction in violent crime, which includes homicides, rapes, robberies and aggravated assaults, encompassing shootings. Property crime, which includes residential and commercial burglary, auto theft and larceny, is down 5%.

“I am incredibly proud of our patrol officers, who are in our neighborhoods daily, engaging with the community, observing suspicious activity and providing our detectives with the crucial information needed to arrest violent offenders,” said Deputy Chief Ryan Butler, who oversees the Investigative Services Group. “The progress we’re making in reducing violent crime comes from strong, ongoing teamwork.”

Overall, the CMPD saw decreases in the following offenses:

• Homicides are down 29%
• Aggravated assaults are down 25%
• Robberies are down 21%

Proactive measures such as firearm seizures, zone checks and police interactions are up significantly through the first half of the year:

• Firearm seizures rose 18%
• Zone checks rose 8%
• Police interactions rose 4%

While Charlotte has seen a 5% reduction in overall property crime, specific areas still present challenges. For instance, burglaries increased by 7%, and larcenies from automobiles rose by 3%. To combat these trends, individuals can take simple precautions like locking their vehicles and securing valuables. Businesses can also play a crucial role by integrating their security systems through Connect Charlotte. Residents are also encouraged to join Connect Charlotte by registering their cameras via the program's online portal, strengthening community-wide vigilance.

In addition to encouraging personal responsibility and prevention efforts, the CMPD remains committed to long-term crime reduction through focused initiatives, such as the Juvenile Accountability and Diversion Empowerment (JADE) team, which engages directly with at-risk youth to deter future criminal activity.

“Our department isn’t just focused on making arrests,” said Captain Michael Carter of the Steele Creek Division. “We’re committed to making a difference in the lives of young people. That’s why our JADE officers continue to make home visits to families of at-risk youth and to provide educational resources aimed at prevention and support.”

In the first two quarters of 2025, the JADE team made 97 arrests, seized 72 firearms and forged trust with young people and their families. This year alone, JADE officers made 84 home visits to help keep younger people on the right path toward productive lives. The CMPD's significant efforts against juvenile crime have paid off, resulting in a 16% drop in arrests in 2025.

While the JADE team continues to play a key role in addressing youth-related crime, other specialized units are also making an impact. The CMPD’s Street Takeover Task Force continues to make progress dismantling illegal street activities, contributing to the reduction of auto thefts. Overall auto thefts have decreased by 22% so far this year. During the first half of the year, officers responded to 25 organized street takeover events, resulting in 7 arrests, 84 citations, 23 vehicle seizures, 6 firearms seized and 111 warrants issued. Another initiative that has contributed to the reduction in auto thefts is the Stolen Car and Recovery Law Enforcement (SCARLET) team. SCARLET officers made 102 arrests, recovered 85 stolen vehicles (valued at over $7 million) and seized 24 firearms.

In addition to enforcement-driven results, CMPD recognizes that long-term public safety also depends on trust and collaboration with the community. Over the past five years, while working to prevent crime, the CMPD has been steadfast in its efforts to improve relationships with the Charlotte community. Five years ago, in response to the 2020 civil rights demonstrations, the department created an innovative program focused on a customer-oriented approach to policing and interactions known as CMPD Serves. This transformative program resulted in a dramatic reduction in use-of-force incidents, external complaints and officer-involved shootings while fostering stronger relationships. An internal 2024 survey showed 70% of employees felt the training applied to their daily duties. From 2023 to 2024, use-of-force incidents fell by 24%, external complaints fell by 61%, internal complaints fell by 39% and officer-involved shootings fell by 43%.

These improvements reflect not only stronger accountability but also a culture shift within the department, one that actively recognizes and rewards excellence. The "Acts of Excellence" component of the CMPD Serves program, which acknowledges employees for going above and beyond, has recognized 137 employees in the first two quarters of this year.

The CMPD’s 2025 Mid-Year Public Safety Report statistics follow national standards set by the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) summary statistics.

The following statistical breakdown provides an overall snapshot of crime through the Mid-Year of 2025 compared to the Mid-Year of 2024:

• Violent crimes: 2,760 offenses in 2025 compared to 3,688 offenses in 2024.
• Homicides: 42 in 2025 compared to 59 in 2024.
• Aggravated assaults: 2,110 in 2025 compared to 2,825 in 2024.
• Rapes: 81 in 2025 compared to 138 in 2024.
• Armed robberies: 306 in 2025 compared to 412 in 2024.
• Property crimes: 17,524 offenses in 2025 compared to 18,356 in 2024.
• Residential burglaries: 795 in 2025 compared to 869 in 2024.
• Commercial burglaries: 1,557 in 2025 compared to 1,144 in 2024.
• Larcenies from automobiles: 5,062 in 2025 compared to 4,931 in 2024.
• Vehicle thefts: 3,120 in 2025 compared to 1,939 in 2024.
• Arsons: 71 in 2025 compared to 81 in 2024

Please follow this link to access the graphics and data file shared during the press conference.

Here are a few ways to view the full press conference:

• View the full press conference from our CMPDNews on Facebook
• View the full press conference from our CMPDVidcast on YouTube

CMPD Reports Substantial Decrease in Violent Crime in Q1

Data-driven policing initiatives contribute to significant Q1 reductions: violent crime declines 17% and property crime falls 4%

Charlotte, N.C. – (Thursday, April 10, 2025) – Today, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) announced a strong start to 2025, demonstrating the effectiveness of its proactive policing initiatives and unwavering commitment to community safety. Citywide crime fell 6% overall during the first quarter of the year. This includes a notable 17% drop in violent crime and a 4% decrease in property crime compared to the same period in 2024.

These positive results, covering data from January 1 to March 31, 2025, underscore the CMPD’s ongoing commitment to proactive, data-driven policing and community collaboration to maintain public safety across Charlotte's 411-square-mile jurisdiction

“These first-quarter results are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our officers and employees and the effectiveness of our strategic initiatives,” said Police Chief Johnny Jennings. “By implementing innovative policing strategies and fostering strong community partnerships, we are making measurable progress in reducing crime and enhancing public safety across Charlotte. Together with our community partners, we are building safer neighborhoods, strengthening community trust and ensuring that all residents feel secure.”

In addition to traditional policing operations, the CMPD continues to innovate with programs like the Coordinated Overlap Response Effort (CORE 13), Connect Charlotte and Community Huddles Addressing Targeted Solutions (CMPD CHATS).

Launched in late 2024, CORE 13 strategically deploys officers from all 13 divisions to areas with increased victimization identified using real-time data. In Q1 2025, CORE 13 officers addressed 82 violent incidents, made 25 arrests and seized 17 firearms.

In one CORE 13 operation, officers seized an AR rifle, over 1,000 grams of marijuana, and arrested a convicted felon on multiple charges, including firearm and drug possession.

“The targeted efforts of CORE 13 are yielding tangible results,” said Major Bret Balamucki. “We are seeing significant crime reductions in areas where we’ve focused our efforts, such as a 37% drop in violent crime incidents in our Steele Creek Division and an impressive 60% reduction in the Beatties Ford and LaSalle area. This demonstrates the real impact of data-driven policing."

Another program activated by the CMPD in late 2024, Connect Charlotte, leverages technology across the community to create an interactive map of security cameras. The program allows residents to register their security cameras and businesses to integrate their systems with the CMPD. More than 1,900 residential and business security cameras have been registered or integrated with Connect Charlotte, supporting faster and more effective investigations. Registering a residential camera does not grant CMPD access to a live video feed. In less than six months, Connect Charlotte has led to arrests in criminal cases and continues to play a key role in both deterring and solving crimes.

To engage with the community on a deeper level, CMPD leaders in multiple divisions, including Eastway Division, North Tryon Division, Westover Division and Hickory Grove Division recently held several CMPD CHATS. These focused gatherings include elected leaders, officers, residents and business owners who work together to create shared safety goals while building trust. By the end of April, all 13 divisions will have participated in additional meetings, totaling 39 CMPD CHATS events.

CMPD is also proactively addressing traffic safety. The Special Services Bureau, which includes CMPD’s Motors Unit, Accident Reconstruction Unit and Special Events Division, is making a significant impact on our roadways.

Since January, traffic enforcement along high-injury corridors has led to 2,386 traffic stops and 2,952 citations, both over 100% increases from last year. Another new program, the Civilian Crash Investigation Unit, has responded to over 2,000 minor, non-injury crashes and assisted with nearly 3,000 calls for service in the first quarter. That’s 38% of the total crashes CMPD handled during that same time frame, freeing sworn officers for higher-priority calls.

Additionally, CMPD has expanded its Civilian Traffic Control Officer (CTCO) program, training nearly 50 additional civilian staff to assist with traffic management during events. This allowed the department to avoid pulling on-duty officers away from patrol during a recent major event, demonstrating how innovation and strategic operational planning can improve safety and efficiency.

Looking ahead to late spring, major events like the Lovin’ Life Music Fest and PGA Championship are scheduled for May and CMPD is ensuring officers are prepared to maintain safety during large-scale public gatherings.

“We are confident in our ability to effectively manage the anticipated increase in visitors and ensure the safety of all attendees during these upcoming large public events,” said Deputy Chief David Robinson, who oversees the Patrol Services Group. “Our comprehensive operations plans ensure our officers are fully prepared to handle traffic and crowd control for the thousands of visitors we expect.”

The following statistical breakdown provides an overall snapshot of crime in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the first quarter of 2024:

• Violent crimes: 1,344 offenses in 2025 compared to 1,626 offenses in 2024.
• Homicides: 20 in 2025 compared to 32 in 2024.
• Aggravated assaults: 1,026 in 2025 compared to 1,203 in 2024.
• Rapes: 36 in 2025 compared to 62 in 2024.
• Armed robberies: 156 in 2025 compared to 211 in 2024.
• Property crimes: 2,510 in 2025 compared to 2,358 in 2024.
• Residential burglaries: 382 in 2025 compared to 420 in 2024.
• Commercial burglaries: 864 in 2025 compared to 863 in 2024.
• Larcenies from automobiles: 2,510 in 2025 compared to 2,358 in 2024.
• Vehicle thefts: 1,530 in 2025 compared to 1,939 in 2024.
• Arsons: 39 in 2025 compared to 41 in 2024

Please follow this link to access the graphics and data file shared during the press conference.

Here are a few ways to view the full press conference:

• View the full press conference from our CMPDNews on Facebook
• View the full press conference from our CMPDVidcast on YouTube

CMPD Releases 2024 Public Safety Report: Overall Crime Down 3% in Charlotte

CMPD Makes Positive Strides in Juvenile Crime and Auto Thefts; Sees Success in Major Operations

Charlotte, N.C. – (Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025) – Today, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) released its 2024 end-of-year annual report highlighting a decrease in overall crime, and reductions in violent and property crime incidents as well as property crime victimization.

"I'm proud of the men and women who worked so hard to lower crime across the city, but also for the way they came together during our worst day on April 29 after losing four officers including one of our own, Officer Joshua Eyer, in the line of duty," said CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings. "We learned a lot about each other in 2024. We are a close group and a resourceful one. Each day, our officers are out trying to make the community safer, and the data shows they are doing an excellent job providing the type of service our neighborhoods need."

CMPD reported a 3% decrease in overall crime victimization and overall incidents in 2024. This is the result of the department's focus on key areas such as juvenile crime, automobile thefts, street takeovers and curtailing violent crime in areas of high victimization. CMPD's data is consistent with the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS). The system is focused on victimization as opposed to incidents. For example, if someone fires a gun at a home and eight people are inside of that home, all eight are considered victims. In this example, there was one shooting incident, but eight victims, and that is reflected in CMPD's reporting system.

Violent crime was up 3% in victimization but down 3% in the number of incidents in 2024. The main driver of this rise in victimization was the 4% increase in aggravated assault by pointing a firearm.

In the fourth quarter of 2024, CMPD launched the Coordinated Overlap Response Effort (CORE 13), an initiative involving all 13 CMPD divisions to increase officer presence. During the first two months of CORE 13, 75 firearms were seized, and 123 arrests were made. This initiative was a driver in lowering violent crime by 4% in the fourth quarter.

"Violent crimes resonate through entire neighborhoods impacting everyone in their path," said Major Bret Balamucki. "CORE 13 is making a significant difference by taking guns off the streets, increasing officer presence and arresting suspects in highly victimized communities."

Property crime dropped 4% in 2024 largely due to a decrease in auto property crimes. Coming into 2024, automobile thefts were a major concern across Charlotte, though targeted efforts to reduce them led to a significant decline in these crimes. Auto thefts decreased by 8% while auto thefts involving Kias and Hyundais were down 15%. Larceny from auto incidents were down 10%, and guns stolen from those incidents were down 9%.

Charlotte also saw a decline in juvenile crime in part due to the launch of CMPD's Juvenile Accountability and Diversion Empowerment (JADE) team. JADE's focus is juvenile investigations, monitoring at-risk youth and conducting operations to reduce crime and break the cycle of recidivism. Throughout 2024, JADE officers conducted 200 home visits of at-risk youth and arrested 122 juveniles involved in criminal activity. JADE officers also provided resources and education to families of juvenile offenders.

Violent crimes involving a juvenile suspect decreased by 2% for the year. Assaults with a deadly weapon involving a juvenile suspect decreased by 21% while juvenile victims were down by 2%. CMPD also saw a 12% reduction in juvenile property crime suspects. In 2024, juvenile suspects involved in criminal incidents decreased by 9%.

"Whether they are your children or someone else's, juvenile crimes impact every one of us," said Lieutenant Erik Tran-Thompson. "In 2024, thanks to JADE officers and proactive policing in each division, we successfully reduced juvenile crime. Juveniles make mistakes, and we work to educate them and their families, but we must hold violent and repeat offenders accountable for their actions."

In December, there was a significant change in state law against violent juvenile offenders. House Bill 834, commonly known as the Raise the Age Amendment, authorized law enforcement agencies to charge 16 and 17-year-olds as adults for high-level felonies. In December, CMPD detectives identified two persons of interest in a homicide that happened in the Steele Creek Division, including a juvenile. This juvenile was the first in Charlotte to be charged with murder as an adult under the new Raise the Age Amendment. In 2024, CMPD’s Community Engagement Division offered 12 programs aimed at providing healthy outlets and mentorship for teens and young adults. This included CMPD's Youth Diversion Program for ages 8-17, diverting first-time offenders from the criminal justice system and toward rehabilitation courses. In 2024, CMPD had 475 participants in the Youth Diversion Program with a 6% recidivism rate.

Street takeovers, a dangerous trend, significantly declined in 2024 largely attributed to CMPD's Transportation Division's increased enforcement and a new law that criminalized events and added new penalties. Pop-up takeovers were down 88% in 2024, while pre-arranged events declined 71%, and street takeover vehicle seizures rose 29%.

In 2023, CMPD created the Stolen Car and Recovery Law Enforcement Team (SCARLET) which has recovered 338 stolen vehicles, seized 225 firearms and made 221 felony arrests. The team also took $4 million in narcotics off the streets and recovered $18.3 million worth of vehicles.

Recruiting efforts continued trending in a positive direction with sworn law enforcement applications up 18% and hires up 30%. CMPD continues to hire a qualified and diverse workforce increasing incentives to draw candidates from around the country. The Public Records Unit received and managed over 3,500 public records requests with a 98% completion rate. Requests were up 146% from 2023. Public records worked diligently to provide the public's right to information while also protecting confidential information regarding active investigations. Maintaining transparency and accountability is among the department's top priorities.

In December 2024, CMPD introduced its Civilian Crash Investigation Unit (CCI). This new unit was created to reduce the time patrol officers spend responding to minor crashes. These minor crashes, which don't involve injuries, made up 71% of the crashes officers responded to per year over the past three years. Between Dec. 12- 31, CCIs responded to 306 minor crashes.

In the fourth quarter of 2024, the CMPD implemented the Heartbeat initiative to increase visibility of officers in core areas of the city. Patrol vehicles across all 13 divisions utilized their steady blue lights or cruise lights at all times. This was an effort to:

• Improve the presence of officers patrolling neighborhoods
• Provide a sense of security and approachability
• Deter criminal activity

In the fourth quarter of 2024, CMPD launched Connect Charlotte, a pilot program leveraging technology to enhance community safety. Connect Charlotte significantly expanded the department's ability to:

• Gather evidence in neighborhood investigations by accessing registered residential cameras
• Locate registered cameras in the area where a crime occurred and request footage from the homeowner
• Gather evidence faster from businesses that can integrate their cameras directly and share with investigators

The following statistical breakdown below provides an overall snapshot of crime victimization in 2024 compared to 2023:

• Violent crimes: 7,413 offenses in 2024 compared to 7,215 offenses in 2023.
• Homicides: 111 in 2024 compared to 89 in 2023.
• Aggravated assaults: 5,679 in 2024 compared to 5,542 in 2023.
• Rapes: 232 in 2023 compared to 256 in 2023.
• Armed robberies: 868 in 2024 compared to 890 in 2023.
• Property crimes: 36,996 offenses in 2024 compared to 38,507 in 2023.
• Residential burglaries: 1,731 in 2024 compared to 1,989 in 2023.
• Commercial burglaries: 2,463 in 2024 compared to 2,335 in 2023.
• Larcenies from automobiles: 10,271 in 2024 compared to 11,390 in 2023.
• Vehicle thefts: 7,445 in 2024 compared to 8,054 in 2023.
• Arsons: 162 in 2024 compared to 143 in 2023.

Looking Forward
Chief Jennings announced his three strategic priorities for CMPD moving into 2025. These included:

1. Attract, recruit and retain a viable workforce
2. Invest in optimizing infrastructure, innovation and technology needs
3. Continue focusing on CORE4 strategic priorities that reduce crime and drive a safe and vibrant community

In 2025, CMPD is considering adding a new program known as "Drone as First Responder" (DFR), to respond before an officer arrives which can provide critical information ahead of any interaction. Drones can send visual information to the Real Time Crime Center giving officers a much clearer idea of the incident before arriving. This information can help officers de-escalate situations faster and lead to safer outcomes for everyone involved.

Here are a few ways to view the full press conference:

• View the full press conference from our CMPDNews on Facebook
• View the full press conference from our CMPDVidcast on YouTube
• View the full press conference from our Granicus MediaPlayer

Please follow this link for access to the full 2024 annual report.(PDF, 12MB)

Please follow this link to access the graphics and data file shared during the press conference.

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Year-End 2023 Statistical Report

Violent Crime remains flat in 2023 fueled by successful operations; Applications and hiring up

Charlotte, N.C. – (Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024) – Today, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) released its 2023 end-of-year annual report showing continued strides in combating violent crime and highlighting multiple successful operations targeted toward overall crime while increasing applications and hiring.

After two consecutive years of violent crime reductions in 2021 and 2022, violent crime stayed flat in 2023.

"Staying flat in violent crime is no small feat in a city as large and as fast-growing as Charlotte," said Special Investigations Bureau Major Michael Ford. "It takes a holistic approach. We are strategic about placing our officers in the most critical areas of the city to increase visibility and proactively deter violent crimes."

Homicides in Charlotte fell 11% in 2023, while the Homicide Unit continued to maintain a solve rate of 80% over five years, one of the highest solve rates in the nation. CMPD's Cold Case Unit also made national news solving several decades-old cold cases in 2023 through the field of forensic genetic genealogy. One of those cases involved identifying the remains of a previously unidentified World War II veteran from the Charlotte area.

Property crime, meanwhile, rose 17%, largely attributed to auto thefts and larcenies from auto, which are crimes mostly committed by juveniles. CMPD handled more than 1 million 9-1-1 calls for service, a 6% increase, and made more than 15,000 arrests, a 12% increase. Officers also seized more than 3,400 firearms as evidence in 2023, a 10% increase.

In April of 2023, CMPD launched a multi-agency task force named Operation SCARLET (Stolen Car & Recovery Law Enforcement Team) to investigate a large network of crime centered around the theft of high-end vehicles. SCARLET recovered 180 stolen cars across the southeast, valued at more than $11 million. Detectives also seized 111 guns (11 stolen), made 85 felony arrests and recovered more than $900,000 worth of narcotics through investigations.

CMPD's Central Division saw successes in 2023 with Operation Heartbeat. The operation was aimed at reducing violent crime in Uptown around the Transit Center, the Spectrum Center and parking garages. Operation Heartbeat reported a 36% decrease in violent crimes in those areas including a 43% reduction in robberies.

One of the biggest challenges CMPD faced in 2023 was the rise in juvenile crime.

Shootings involving a juvenile suspect increased by 33% while shootings involving a juvenile victim increased by 18%. The top three juvenile offenders in Charlotte committed more than 120 offenses combined in 2023 alone, a trend that Northwest Patrol Major Ryan Butler addressed during the media briefing on Jan. 11.

"Secure custody orders for juveniles remain difficult to obtain as juvenile crime continues to rise," said Major Ryan Butler. "This is an issue that is impacting the entire city and state of North Carolina. We're going to continue to see our Charlotte residents preyed upon by juveniles who do not fear repercussions for their actions. Our officers are constantly playing catch and release with the same groups of young people. This is what the CMPD and the public are up against."

Juvenile property crime suspects were up 86% in 2023. The rise in property crime was fueled by a 120% increase in auto thefts. There were more than 8,000 vehicles reported stolen in Charlotte in 2023, which equates to 22 vehicle thefts per day. Officers made more than 1,200 auto theft arrests (up 98%), with juveniles accounting for more than two-thirds of those arrests (68%). Kia and Hyundai vehicles accounted for 67% of all auto thefts, tracing back to a viral social media trend that influenced young people to steal Kia and Hyundai vehicles at a much higher rate. In the spring of 2022, CMPD hosted giveaways of steering wheel club anti-theft devices, handing out approximately 1,500 clubs to help citizens protect themselves from auto theft.

CMPD's Community Engagement Division offered 13 programs aimed at providing healthy outlets and mentorship for teens and young adults. This includes CMPD's Youth Diversion Program for ages 8-17, diverting first-time offenders from the criminal justice system and toward rehabilitation courses. In 2023, CMPD had 444 participants in the Youth Diversion Program, and 95% did not re-offend.

This past year, amid rising overdose rates, CMPD's Public Affairs Division launched an anti-fentanyl awareness campaign to increase education and connect with younger audiences. The campaign referenced popular slang terms to stand out and target its message to young people and families. Following the campaign's launch, overall overdose fatalities in Charlotte fell by 33% in the fourth quarter. You can find a full list of campaign materials called Street Pills Kill.

CMPD also announced that recruitment efforts continued trending in a positive direction. Sworn law enforcement applications and hires were up in 2023, with applications rising 31% and hires up 26%. CMPD continues to hire a qualified and diverse work force, increasing incentives to draw candidates from around the country.

Finally, Chief Jennings announced his four strategic priorities for CMPD moving into 2024. These include:

• Continue violent crime reduction efforts.
• Reduce automobile property crime.
• Recruitment and retention to increase applicant pool, hiring and enhancing the workforce.
• Continue customer experience training as we focus on growing minds together and practicing consistency.

"I am proud of the hard work that all of our CMPD employees achieved in 2023, and I appreciate their service to the City of Charlotte," said CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings. "There is a lot of work to be done, but I am optimistic as we move into 2024. Charlotte is one of the best cities in the country, and we will continue our efforts to ensure the safety of both our residents and visitors."

The following statistical breakdown below provides an overall snapshot of crime in 2023 compared to 2022:

• Violent crimes: 7,221 offenses in 2023 compared to 7,213 offenses in 2022.
• Homicides: 95 in 2023 compared to 107 in 2022.
• Aggravated assaults: 5,546 in 2023 compared to 5,368 in 2022.
• Rapes: 244 in 2023 compared to 286 in 2022.
• Armed robberies: 898 in 2023 compared to 985 in 2022.
• Property crimes: 38,187 offenses in 2023 compared to 32,757 in 2022.
• Residential burglaries: 1,965 in 2023 compared to 2,013 in 2022.
• Commercial burglaries: 2,365 in 2023 compared to 2,118 in 2022.
• Larcenies from automobiles: 11,323 in 2023 compared to 10,444 in 2022.
• Vehicle thefts: 8,032 in 2023 compared to 3,648 in 2022.
• Arsons: 148 in 2023 compared to 148 in 2022.

Here are a few ways to view the full press conference:

• View the full press conference from our CMPDNews on Facebook
• View the full press conference from our CMPDVidcast on YouTube
• View the full press conference from our Granicus MediaPlayer

For access to the full end-of-year report(PDF, 12MB).

For access to the graphics and data shared during the press conference.

3rd Quarter Statistics

Charlotte, N.C. – (Thursday, October 19, 2023)
Today, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) released its 3^rd Quarter Public Safety Report highlighting a continued decrease in violent crime year-to-date in 2023, as the department hits new highs in hiring and recruitment.

Overall, violent crime is down 5% with declines in major categories including homicides (down 19%), robberies (down 11%) and aggravated assaults (down 2%). Reducing violent crime is the CMPD's and Chief Johnny Jennings' top priority. The reduction in violent crime reflects the successes of the immense resources and proactive strategies implemented throughout the year as well as the daily hard work of our patrol officers and command staff. Specialized units like the Crime Gun Suppression Team (CGST) and Crime Reduction Units (CRU's) conduct daily operations to identify and target crime, make arrests, seize illegal weapons and work with our community partners to prevent crime.

For example, this past June, a woman was robbed in her home at gun point during a home invasion. Detectives spent two months analyzing evidence and conducting surveillance before identifying the main suspect and issuing warrants. The Crime Gun Suppression Team identified the suspect as Irvin Velazquez. Upon arrest, CMPD seized 9 firearms, including 1 stolen handgun, as well as a stolen Audi. Velazquez was charged with first degree burglary, robbery with a dangerous weapon and conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon. This case is documented in the incident report numbers: 20230620-0244-01 & 20230829-0954-00.

Sworn and civilian recruitment is also a top priority in 2023, as we continue to meet the needs of a rapidly growing city. While nationwide, police departments are seeing reductions in applications and hiring, the CMPD is getting ready to welcome its largest ever recruit class with 82 initial members of Class 196. Overall hiring within the CMPD has increased by 22% between 2022 & 2023. Total applications have increased by 18% year-to-date.

The gains in hiring will help the CMPD continue to provide excellent and timely service to Charlotte residents. In 2023, citizen-initiated patrol responses have increased by 2%. Proactive "zone checks" are up 4%. Zone checks allow officers to station in specific areas to provide a presence and deter criminal activity.

While overall violent crime has dropped in 2023, shootings have risen slightly by 2% with shootings involving juvenile suspects rising by 32%. One example highlighting the quick work by officers and detectives, occurred after a shooting on St. Johns Church Road in the North Tryon Division. Twenty-five rounds were collected on scene. A victim's vehicle was fired into from another vehicle with the victim hit by shrapnel. Through the investigation, detectives identified the 17-year-old suspect who fired the shots, along with another 17-year-old suspect who was in the back seat and who had cut off an ankle monitor shortly afterwards. On top of making the arrests, detectives seized two AR-15 assault rifles and a stolen Glock handgun with an extended magazine. This case is documented in the incident report number: 20230923-0202-02.

The rise in shootings involving our youth is disturbing to the CMPD but should also be disturbing to all Charlotte residents. The CMPD cannot simply ";arrest its way" out of this issue. The department is dedicated to community-based solutions including providing more than two dozen youth programs through the Community Engagement Division. The CMPD urges families to take advantage of these mentoring programs to encourage and lead our youth along the right path.  

Overall crime in 2023 has risen by 11% due to a continued spike in property crime (up 14%) and more specifically due to the rise in auto thefts (up 125%). CMPD division staff, detectives and patrol officers have worked diligently to address the rise in auto thefts. The CMPD has seen a reduction in the rate of vehicle thefts in the third quarter from a 143% increase reported in mid-July. The main contributor to vehicle thefts remains the Hyundai-Kia social media “challenge”. Hyundai and Kia vehicles continue to be targeted at an alarming rate (up 843%) with juveniles committing most of these thefts (70% of total auto theft arrests). The CMPD urges vehicle owners to take precautions including:

• Purchase a steering wheel lock
• Lock your doors and store your valuables
• Park in well-lit areas or areas with surveillance

Steering wheel locks may also be available for free at any CMPD division office, depending on supply.

Last month, the CMPD announced the results of the ongoing Stolen Car and Recovery Law Enforcement Team (SCARLET) Operation to combat a rise in luxury car thefts. The department is proud to announce the latest results of the operation including more than 150 stolen vehicles recovered, 91 firearms seized and hundreds of thousands of dollars' worth of illegal drugs seized. The successful operation remains active and ongoing around the city of Charlotte.

The following statistical breakdown below provides an overall snapshot of crime (YTD) in 2023 compared to 2022:

• Violent crimes: 5,329 offenses in 2023 compared to 5,579 offenses in 2022.
• Homicides: 69 in 2023 compared to 85 in 2022.
• Rapes: 185 in 2023 compared to 217 in 2022.
• Armed robberies: 995 in 2023 compared to 1,114 in 2022.
• Property crimes: 27,842 offenses in 2023 compared to 24,378 in 2022.
• Residential burglaries: 1,464 in 2023 compared to 1,613 in 2022.
• Commercial burglaries: 1,569 in 2023 compared to 1,610 in 2022.
• Larcenies from automobiles: 8,291 in 2023 compared to 7,812 in 2022.
• Vehicle thefts: 5,824 in 2023 compared to 2,594 in 2022.
• Arsons: 106 in 2023 compared to 118 in 2022.

To review graphics from our 3^rd Quarter Media Briefing.

Here are a few ways to view the full press conference:

• View the full press conference from our CMPDNews on Facebook
• View the full press conference from our CMPDVidcast on YouTube
• View the full press conference from our Granicus MediaPlayer

2nd Quarter Statistics

Charlotte, N.C. – (Wednesday, July 12, 2023)
Today, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) released its Mid-Year Public Safety Report revealing a continued decrease in violent crime year-to-date (YTD) in 2023, compared to the same time frame in 2022.

The CMPD continues to see a downward trend in violent crime. Overall, violent crime is down 8% with declines in every major category including homicides (down 15%), robberies (down 14%), rape (down 26%), and aggravated assaults (down 5%). The reduction of violent crime is one of the CMPD's top priorities and the department continues to develop result-driven initiatives within our communities to contribute to this effort including:

• Actively seeking input and engagement from the community
• Employing a strategic approach to resource deployment
• Leveraging advanced crime analysis techniques and technology to monitor crime patterns

Crime Reduction Units (CRU) play a vital role in the CMPD's work to reduce violent crime. These units work tirelessly to identify and target high-crime areas, conduct surveillance and gather intelligence, make arrests, seize illegal weapons and work with our community partners to prevent crime.

As violent crime continues to decline, property crime, and specifically, auto thefts continue to drive up the overall crime rate.

Between January 1, 2023 and June 30, 2023, overall crime is up 11% in Charlotte. The main driver of this increase continues to be auto thefts. The number of Hyundai/Kia car thefts remain extremely elevated both in Charlotte and nationwide due to a social media challenge targeting these vehicles that emerged in 2022. To date, the CMPD has seen auto thefts increase (+143) compared to the same time period last year.

"In fact, if we exclude auto thefts from the equation, both this year and last, the overall crime rate would actually show a decrease of 0.4%," said CMPD Deputy Chief Steven Brochu.

The CMPD will continue to address this social media trend through enforcement and education efforts. This year, the CMPD held multiple steering wheel lock giveaway events, handing out thousands of steering wheel locks to Kia and Hyundai vehicle owners. The CMPD also urges residents to follow the following tips to avoid becoming a victim:

• Lock your doors and store your valuables
• Park in well-lit areas or areas with surveillance
• Purchase a steering wheel lock

Juvenile offenders have accounted for the majority (72%) of all arrests for vehicle thefts thus far in 2023. Many of the offenders, some as young as 12 and 13 years old, have been connected to multiple vehicle thefts. The CMPD has also seen stolen vehicles by juveniles used in the commission of other crimes including robberies and shootings. To date, the CMPD has recorded 520 arrests in auto thefts, up 91% in 2023.  Of those arrests, 373 were juveniles.

Recruitment remains a top priority for the CMPD. The CMPD Recruiting Division continues to look for ways to engage, attract, and hire quality individuals for sworn positions. To date, the CMPD has seen a 10% increase in applications for sworn positions compared to the same time period last year. The Charlotte City Council adopted it's Fiscal Year 2024 budget which includes a 10.5% salary increase for officers and sergeants as well as the continuation of a $7,500 hiring bonus.

Additionally, CMPD's Human Resources Division has had success recruiting equally talented individuals to join the department in non-sworn roles, reporting fewer than 25 vacancies out of the 518 non-sworn positions department wide. For more information about CMPD's recruitment efforts visit JoinCMPD.com.

Recently, the CMPD has seen several legislative victories that will aid law enforcement efforts to curb both violent crime and dangerous trends on roadways.

On Friday, July 7, 2023, Governor Roy Cooper signed House Bill 813, The Pretrial Integrity Act, into law. The new law goes into effect October 1, 2023. It mandates that judges, not magistrates, set bonds for certain violent offenders who commit one of 18 serious criminal offenses. CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings spent months working with local leaders to advocate for its passage.

Earlier this week, Governor Roy Cooper also signed legislation directly targeting the trend of street takeovers, street racing, and dangerous street stunts. The new bill, Senate Bill 91, goes into effect December 1, 2023 and will increase penalties for participants in this illegal activity. The increased penalties will aid the CMPD's Transportation Division efforts to crackdown on these meetups. So far in 2023, CMPD's Transportation Division has made 25 arrests, issued 107 citations, seized 12 firearms and towed 69 vehicles related to this behavior.

On Friday, June 23, 2023, Governor Roy Cooper signed House Bill 140 into law. The purpose of the new law is to lessen the burden on police agencies statewide, allowing cities to employ trained civilian personnel to investigate traffic crashes involving property damage only. The new law went into effect on July 1, 2023 and the CMPD is developing a plan to implement a new Civilian Traffic Investigators program. The Civilian Traffic Investigators will not replace any of the city's sworn police officers or reduce the number of police officers employed by respective cities.

The following statistical breakdown below provides an overall snapshot of crime (YTD) in 2023 compared to 2022:

• Violent crimes: 3,406 offenses in 2023 compared to 3,689 offenses in 2022.
• Homicides: 45 in 2023 compared to 53 in 2022.
• Rapes: 109 in 2023 compared to 147 in 2022.
• Armed robberies: 631 in 2023 compared to 733 in 2022.
• Property crimes: 17,873 offenses in 2023 compared to 15,475 in 2022.
• Residential burglaries: 934 in 2023 compared to 1,055 in 2022.
• Commercial burglaries: 909 in 2023 compared to 1,068 in 2022.
• Larcenies from automobiles: 5,319 in 2023 compared to 4,807 in 2022.
• Vehicle thefts: 3,717 in 2023 compared to 1,530 in 2022.
• Arsons: 58 in 2023 compared to 77 in 2022.

Graphics from this morning's media briefing can be found on CMPD’s Twitter Feed.

Here are a few ways to view the full press conference:

• View the full press conference from our CMPDNews on Facebook
• View the full press conference from our CMPDVidcast on YouTube
• View the full press conference from our Granicus MediaPlayer

1st Quarter Statistics

Charlotte, N.C. – (Thursday, April 20, 2023)
Today, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) released its first quarter public safety report revealing a 6% decrease in violent crime from the same time frame in 2022.

"Reducing violent crime is the top priority for Chief Johnny Jennings and the CMPD," said Deputy Chief Tonya Arrington. "We attribute the decrease in 2023 to the tireless efforts of our entire CMPD staff and our strong community partnerships."

Proactive work this quarter resulted in a rise in overall arrests (up 13%) and firearm seizures (up 12%), despite facing a department and nationwide officer shortage.

Other positive trends include a drop in robberies (down 5%), burglaries (down 3%), rapes (down 22%), and aggravated assaults (down 6%). Homicides (up 26%) and property crime (up 10%) both rose through the first 3 months of 2023.

The largest contributor to the rise in overall crime incidents in 2023 has been auto thefts. The CMPD has reported a 99% increase in auto thefts in 2023 compared to the same time frame in 2022.

The spike in auto thefts is traced back to a social media trend, the "Kia Challenge" that originated in the summer of 2022. It gave details on how to steal Kia and Hyundai vehicles easily without needing keys. In 2023, Kia and Hyundai thefts have risen by 1,747%. Ninety-five percent of suspects arrested for a Kia and Hyundai theft have been juveniles. Juveniles have also accounted for 62% of all auto theft arrestees.

The CMPD has addressed and will continue to address this trend through increased enforcement and education. Officers have recovered more than half of all stolen vehicles in 2023, and have made nearly 250 auto theft arrests, an increase of 64% from 2022. The CMPD has held a giveaway for steering wheel "club" anti-theft devices for Kia and Hyundai vehicles with another giveaway event scheduled for April 29^th. CMPD's Public Affairs Office has put out materials on the Kia/Hyundai Challenge with prevention tips to educate vehicle owners.

The CMPD is addressing another trend with increased enforcement. The CMPD's Transportation Division is reporting arrests, citations, and vehicle seizures linked to "street takeovers". The trend involves groups of drivers shutting down intersections to perform reckless driving stunts like burnouts, drifting, and doughnuts. Since February, CMPD has made 11 arrests, issued 78 citations, and towed 34 vehicles linked to street takeover incidents. The department will continue to pursue every legal avenue available to hold reckless drivers accountable, including vehicle seizures.

The CMPD is urging parents and caregivers to be active and involved in the children's lives to help curb the ongoing increase in juvenile crime.

The CMPD offers nearly two dozen community engagement programs aimed at youth development with more than 32,000 participants. Many summer programs will be available in 2023 to provide structure and positive outlets for children. A full list of programs is available on the CMPD website under the Community Involvement tab. The CMPD also has free gun locks available to Charlotte citizens. Contact your neighborhood division office to request one.

The following statistical breakdown below provides an overall snapshot of crime (YTD) in 2023 compared to 2022:

• Violent crimes were 1,629 compared to 1,737 in 2022.
• Homicides were 24 compared to 19 in 2022.
• Rapes were 56 compared to 72 in 2022.
• Armed robberies were 308 compared to 325 in 2022.
• Property crimes were 8,030 compared to 7,289 in 2022.
• Residential burglaries were 404 compared to 465 in 2022.
• Commercial burglaries were 514 compared to 480 in 2022.
• Larcenies from automobiles were 2,306 compared to 2,232 in 2022.
• Vehicle thefts were 1,468 compared to 738 in 2022.
• Arsons were 30 compared to 31 in 2022.

Statistical Documents:

•  2024 Year-End Statistical Report(PDF, 151MB)
•  2023 Year-End Statistical Report(PDF, 12MB)
•  2022 Year-End Statistical Report(PDF, 19MB)
•  2021 Year-End Statistical Report(PDF, 4MB)
•  2020 Year-End Statistical Report(PDF, 1MB)
•  2019 Year-End Statistical Report(PDF, 109KB)
•  2018 Year-End Statistical Report(PDF, 109KB)
•  2017 Year-End Statistical Report(PDF, 112KB)
•  2016 Year-End Statistical Report(PDF, 249KB)
•  2015 Year-End Statistical Report(PDF, 139KB)
•  2014 Year-End Statistical Report(PDF, 480KB)
•  2013 Year-End Statistical Report(PDF, 436KB)
•  2012 Year-End Statistical Report(PDF, 314KB)
•  2011 Year-End Statistical Report(PDF, 119KB)
•  2010 Year-End Statistics Report(PDF, 80KB)
•  2009 Year-End Statistics Report (PDF, 352KB)