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.

2024 Third Quarter Public Safety Report

Charlotte, N.C. – (Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024) – Today, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) released its Third Quarter Public Safety Report in a media briefing held at the Law Enforcement Center (LEC) in Uptown where officials shared that overall crime is flat through Sept. 30, 2024.

CMPD provided an overview of crime statistics from Jan. 1 through Sept. 30, 2024, with property crime down 1% and violent crime up 6%.

The overall number of vehicle thefts have not increased or decreased this year compared to this time last year, and the larceny from auto incidents have decreased 9% (7,645 in 2024 compared to 8,381 in 2023).

CMPD responded to 294,695 calls for service (up 3%) and the percentage of police interactions increased 2% over the same timeframe, (409,396 in 2024 vs. 400,851 in 2023). Arrests are up 3%, and gun seizures are up 3%.

The CMPD's JADE (Juvenile Accountability and Diversion Empowerment) Team investigated several cases and made 75 arrests, many of whom were involved in vehicle thefts and larceny from auto cases. Juvenile arrests are flat through the third quarter.

During the same period, the CMPD saw a rise in homicides. Year-to-date, there were 83 homicides in 2024, a 28% increase over the same timeframe in 2023.

"CMPD's Homicide Unit investigates each and every case tirelessly, and they are dedicated to achieving a resolution and justice for each life lost and for the victims' families left behind," said Deputy Chief Jackie Bryley. "The CMPD's Homicide Unit continues to exceed the national average, maintaining a 5-year average homicide clearance rate of 80%. In 2024, the Homicide Unit cleared 70% of its homicide cases through the third quarter."

Aggravated Assaults are up 7%. An Aggravated Assault occurs when the crime is taken a step further, such as a weapon is used, or the harm or threat takes place in certain circumstances.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon crimes are up 4%; pointing a gun is up 8%.

The increase in the number of Organized Retail Crime incidents is a contributing factor in the rise of Aggravated Assaults. The CMPD has investigated over 900 Organized Retail Crime incidents through the third quarter.

"The city has seen a rise in these crimes, which are increasingly violent and threaten the safety of retail employees and customers," said Major Ryan Butler.

CMPD officers located and arrested five suspects who committed numerous shoplifting incidents throughout the City of Charlotte. The shoplifting incidents escalated into Common Law Robberies when the suspects sprayed retail employees with bear spray in order to flee the scene.

The most recent case occurred on Sunday, Sept. 1, at a Harris Teeter store in CMPD's Providence Division in the 6700 block of Carnegie Boulevard. The suspects used hijabs (head coverings) to disguise their appearances. When a store employee approached the suspects and asked for them to leave, they sprayed the worker with bear spray.

As a result of the continued investigation, detectives identified two suspects involved and were able to link these suspects as well as three others to several organized retail crime cases. On Friday, Sept. 20, officers arrested and charged the following suspects in connection with these incidents:

• Zaniya Howard, 18
• Soverria Davis, 19
• Heaven Manning, 20
• Amiya Beatty, 22
• Shaquilla Martin, 29

“Organized retail crime detectives work tirelessly to disrupt these sophisticated theft rings that have resulted in significant financial loss and apprehensions of individuals involved in these criminal networks,” said Maj. Butler.

Recruitment continues to remain a top priority for the department. Less than a week ago, Recruit Class 197 graduated adding 48 officers to Patrol.

In December, the CMPD will add a fourth recruit class – Recruit Class 200. This is the first time in the department’s 31-year history that a fourth recruit class will start during the calendar year. The recruits will embark on the newly instituted 8-month training and certification program to become the department’s newest officers. If you or anyone you know is interested in joining the ranks of CMPD, please go to www.JoinCMPD.com.

The CMPD also anticipates the launch of the Civilian Crash Investigations Program by the end of the year. The goal of this program is to have several trained civilians to investigate property-damage-only traffic crashes within CMPD’s jurisdiction. With this civilian unit’s crash response, it will allow our officers to respond to higher priority calls. In 2022, officers spent more than 31,000 hours responding to these types of calls.

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

• Violent crimes: 5,662 offenses in 2024 compared to 5,342 offenses in 2023.
• Homicides: 83 in 2024 compared to 65 in 2023.
• Rapes: 167 in 2024 compared to 196 in 2023.
• Armed robberies: 662 in 2024 compared to 669 in 2023.
• Property crimes: 27,874 offenses in 2024 compared to 28,142 in 2023.
• Residential burglaries: 1,303 in 2024 compared to 1,497 in 2023.
• Commercial burglaries: 1,964 in 2024 compared to 1,481 in 2023.
• Larcenies from automobiles: 7,645 in 2024 compared to 8,381 in 2023.
• Vehicle thefts: 5,852 in 2024 compared to 5,838 in 2023.
• Arsons: 116 in 2024 compared to 106 in 2023.

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CMPD Releases 2nd Quarter Statistics for 2024

Charlotte, N.C. – (Monday, July 22, 2024) – Today, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) released its 2024 Mid-Year Public Safety Report, revealing a slight increase (1%) in overall crime from January 1 – June 30, 2024 and no increase in property crime from 2023.

The flattening of the property crime rate in 2024 is a major improvement from a historic rise in property crimes fueled by a nationwide trend of Kia and Hyundai thefts dating back to the summer of 2022. In 2024, auto thefts increased 8%, a stark contrast from the 143% increase reported in the mid-year of 2023. The number of Kia and Hyundai thefts is up 14% through mid-year 2024. If Kia and Hyundai thefts were omitted from overall auto theft numbers, there would be a 4% decrease in overall auto thefts in 2024. The flat rate of property crime underscores the efforts of CMPD officers to proactively patrol one of the most rapidly growing cities in the nation.

"It is a positive sign that we are slowing the increase of property crime and overall crime incidents," said Deputy Chief David Robinson in a press conference at CMPD headquarters this afternoon. "Last year, Chief Jennings met with department leadership and added the reduction of auto property crime as a top priority heading into 2024. These numbers reflect that priority as we work to reverse a nationwide trend."

Overall, the CMPD saw increases in the following categories of police interactions:

• Calls for Service were up 4% in 2024 (192,605 vs 185,643 YTD in 2023)
• Overall Police Interactions increased 2% in 2024 (268,040 vs 262,018 YTD in 2023)

CMPD officers responded to this increase in volume with increased enforcement efforts recording a 5% increase in overall arrests (7,940 in 2024 vs 7,559 YTD in 2023) and a 1% increase in firearm seizures (1,738 in 2024 vs 1,721 YTD in 2023).

Despite increased enforcement actions across the board from officers, CMPD saw an 8% increase in violent crimes year-to-date in 2024. This includes the following:

• Homicides increased 36% (61 YTD in 2024 to 45 YTD in 2023)
• Aggravated Assaults increased 9% (2,844 YTD in 2024 to 2,620 YTD in 2023)
• Assault with a Deadly Weapon Involving a Firearm increased 8% (2,193 YTD in 2024 to 2,034 YTD in 2023)

The CMPD is committed to doing the work necessary to address violence in Charlotte.  CMPD's Crime Reduction Unit and Crime Gun Suppression Team conduct daily patrols in the city's highest incident areas, to seize firearms and arrest repeat violent offenders. CMPD's Homicide Unit has already cleared 37 of 53 homicide investigations (involving 61 victims) through June 30, for a solve rate of 70%. The Homicide Unit has maintained a 5-year clearance rate average of 80%, well above the national average of approximately 50%.

"CMPD will continue to do the important work every day of patrolling, making arrests and seizing firearms to address this violent crime," said Robinson. "But these numbers extend far beyond anything to do with policing, they point to larger societal problems. It will require a multi-faceted, joint effort approach of not only our officers, but our community and community partners to provide alternatives to violence, particularly with young people, to achieve the outcomes we desire for our city."

This year, following a historic rise in juvenile crime in 2023, CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings made addressing juvenile crime a department-wide initiative, including advocating for the opening of a dedicated juvenile detention facility in Mecklenburg County.

In 2023, juvenile crime incidents spiked to the highest levels in Charlotte in at least the last five years. In 2024, the rise in juvenile crime incidents has continued in the following:

• Juvenile Suspects identified in Property Crimes increased 19% (902 in 2024 vs 760 YTD in 2023)
• Juvenile Suspects identified in Violent Crimes increased 7% (220 in 2024 vs 206 in 2023)
• Overall Juvenile Arrets increased 12% (1,684 in 2024 vs 1,510 in 2023)

Even more disturbing and disheartening in 2024, there has been a 300% rise in juvenile homicide suspects (12 YTD in 2024 vs 3 YTD in 2023) and a 75% increase in juvenile homicide victims (7 YTD in 2024 vs 4 YTD in 2023). In 2024, repeat juvenile offenders have accounted for 61% of total juvenile arrests (1,032 repeat juvenile arrests vs 1,684 total juvenile arrests).

"The number of repeat juvenile offenders has pointed to an undeniable need for more accountability post-arrest and to house juvenile offenders in a detention facility locally.  A lack of space to house juveniles should not be an excuse for allowing repeat offenders to rack up dozens or even hundreds of charges by the time they're 17-years-old," said Robinson. "Due to difficulties obtaining a secure custody order for juvenile suspects, our officers only apply for them in the most serious cases. Already this year, the Department of Juvenile Justice has denied at least 62 secure custody order requests for juvenile offenders."

Due to increased juvenile crime incidents, CMPD formed a new task force at the beginning of 2024 dedicated to providing enforcement and diversion actions for repeat juvenile offenders. The Juvenile Apprehension and Diversion Empowerment (JADE) team conducts juvenile investigations and operations and monitors the most at-risk juveniles in the Charlotte community. JADE officers perform routine home visits to those most at-risk juveniles, providing resources to build rapport and trusted relationships with the youth in hopes of breaking the cycle of recidivism. Through the first half of 2024, JADE officers have conducted more than 100 home visits. So far in 2024, JADE has made 52 juvenile arrests and seized 36 firearms and 15 pounds of narcotics.

CMPD's Stolen Car and Recovery Law Enforcement Team (SCARLET) is another Department initiative leading the way in targeting repeat property and violent crime offenders. SCARLET was launched in April of 2023 to address a rise in luxury vehicle thefts both in Charlotte and across the nation. So far in 2024, SCARLET has made 68 arrests, seized 66 vehicles, 47 firearms and more than 184 pounds of narcotics. The team has also seized more than $200,000 in cash. In late May, SCARLET arrested a 17-year-old serial offender.

Anthony Celis, 17, was arrested on Friday, May 31, 2024, and charged in 27 different criminal cases in 2024 totaling 48 charges including Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill, 21 counts of motor vehicle thefts and charges related to street takeover events.

Celis' arrest was the result of a joint collaborative effort involving CMPD's Crime Gun Suppression Team (CGST) along with CMPD's Stolen Car and Recovery Law Enforcement Team (SCARLET) and North Division's Crime Reduction Unit. The arrest of Mr. Celis is one of many examples of the successful work from SCARLET in 2024. 

"Looking ahead, the CMPD will remain laser-focused on our top priorities, reducing violent crime, auto crimes and juvenile delinquency in our community," said Deputy Chief Robinson. "What the numbers tell us is that this is not just a law enforcement issue. It is a community issue and every citizen has a role to play. It will take all of us working collaboratively to ensure the safety of our great city."

The following statistical breakdown below provides an overall snapshot of crime through the Mid-Year of 2024 compared to the Mid-Year of 2023:

• Violent crimes: 3,693 offenses in 2024 compared to 3,419 offenses in 2023.
• Homicides: 61 in 2024 compared to 45 in 2023.
• Aggravated Assaults: 2,844 in 2024 compared to 2,620 in 2023.
• Rapes: 121 in 2024 compared to 124 in 2023.
• Armed robberies: 413 in 2024 compared to 429 in 2023.
• Property crimes: 18,092 offenses in 2024 compared to 18,085 in 2023.
• Residential burglaries: 858 in 2024 compared to 950 in 2023.
• Commercial burglaries: 1,181 in 2024 compared to 845 in 2023.
• Larcenies from automobiles: 4,887 in 2024 compared to 5,373 in 2023.
• Vehicle thefts: 4,011 in 2024 compared to 3,731 in 2023.
• Arsons: 81 in 2024 compared to 56 in 2023.

Please follow this link to review graphics from our 2024 Mid-Year 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

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, www.cmpd.org and www.JoinCMPD.com, is a progressive, technology-driven, metropolitan department that believes strongly in the principles of crime management, community collaboration, professional accountability and employee wellness. The department employs more than 1,900 sworn officers, 500 civilian employees and 500 volunteers.



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Violent Crime Drops in 2024 First Quarter

Charlotte, N.C. – (Monday, April 15, 2024) – Today, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) released its First Quarter Public Safety Report revealing a 1% decrease in violent crime year-to-date in 2024, as well as a 4% increase in property crime and 3% increase in overall crime. In a briefing at the Law Enforcement Center (601 E. Trade Street), CMPD representatives delivered updates on several strategic initiatives targeting violent crime, repeat offenders and juvenile delinquency.

"I am proud of our department's efforts in quarter one, " said Chief Johnny Jennings. "Any reduction in violent crime is an achievement in a city growing as rapidly as Charlotte. However, our work doesn't stop there. The number of juveniles involved in our crime stats is astonishing. Juveniles are committing violent and property crime in our city with little to no consequence or accountability. This has to change. As chief, I will continue to be outspoken about this issue and diligently work with our partners to find solutions. Our young people are our future and we must work to develop programs and solutions that show them just how bright their futures could be."

The drop in violent crime in quarter one includes decreases in Aggravated Assaults (-3%) and Aggravated Assaults with a Firearm (-4%).

Despite the decrease in violent crime incidents in the first quarter of 2024, the CMPD addressed the rise in homicides. There were 34 homicides in the first three months of 2024, a 31% increase over the same timeframe in 2023.

"We as concerned citizens, community members and neighbors can make a positive impact to reduce the violence that is becoming too routine," said Deputy Chief Zeru Chickoree. "We need the community to collaborate with us and get out in front of what is happening in their neighborhoods. Don't put blinders on to warning signs and call us when you see something suspicious. De-escalation needs to happen routinely, so conflicts aren't settled with the pull of a trigger."

During this increase in homicide incidents, the CMPD's Homicide Unit has maintained a five-year average homicide clearance rate of 80% that ranks among the best in the nation. In 2024, the Homicide Unit has already cleared 70% of its homicide cases year-to-date with the national average around 50%.

New in 2024, CMPD's Central Division has implemented an initiative to reduce violent and property crime incidents in highly trafficked areas of Uptown. In 2023, CMPD launched "Operation Heartbeat" which utilized proactive patrols in the areas of the Spectrum Center and Transit Center. "Heartbeat" is now called Operation TRIO (Targeted Response for Intervention & Outreach),” which has expanded its footprint to also include First and Fourth Ward Parks and Romare Bearden Park. TRIO has helped reduce violent crime incidents in Uptown by 13% thus far in 2024. Through this initiative, officers have made 45 arrests and seized four firearms.

Juvenile crime continues to be a major concern for the CMPD with a rise in auto thefts and Shootings into Occupied Property (SIOPs). Thus far in 2024, juvenile suspects have been responsible for 21 total shootings and 17 SIOPs (up 42%). The 17 juvenile-related SIOPs have impacted 74 total victims. Meanwhile, out of the 279 auto theft arrests made in the first quarter of 2024, 222 were juvenile suspects (80%). The CMPD is committed to taking proactive measures to support Charlotte's youth and take repeat offenders out of their cycle of criminal activity and divert them towards programs designed to end recidivism.

In 2024, CMPD is bolstering efforts to address juvenile crime with the creation of the new JADE initiative. The JADE (Juvenile Accountability and Diversion Empowerment) team conducts juvenile investigations and operations and monitors Charlotte's most at-risk juvenile offenders. JADE provides resources to these juveniles and their families to prevent recidivism and helps empower them to turn their lives around for the better and become productive citizens in our community. So far in 2024, JADE officers have made 24 arrests, recovered five vehicles and seven firearms and made 27 home visits to juvenile offenders to provide families with resources.

In addition to JADE, the CMPD will build upon its 2023 pilot program, Fifth Element. This mentor and diversion program is for repeat juvenile offenders ages 13 to 17. The juvenile participants are paired with officers and take part in monthly workshops that emphasize life and occupational skills training, career coaching and cultural enrichment. Participants are selected through referrals from officers or Service Area lieutenants and are automatically enrolled every year until they graduate or age out of the program. CMPD graduated two participants last year and currently have five participants enrolled.

Recruitment continues to be a top priority for the CMPD. The Recruitment and Training Bureau works tirelessly to attract candidates to join the ranks of the CMPD. The division visits countless career events at universities, military bases and more to connect with potential recruits. So far in 2024, the CMPD has received nearly 900 sworn applications (up 86%) and has made 71 sworn hires (up 69%). This has helped reduce our overall officer shortage to 191 vacancies (down 20%). The department's current staffing number includes police recruits who are employed by the CMPD but have not graduated from the Training Academy. This week, Recruit Class 196 will graduate 58 police recruits. New in 2024, the department will introduce a fourth recruit class in December, in addition to a yearly lateral recruit class this year.

As recruitment efforts continue to reduce officer vacancies, the CMPD is set to launch a new program that will help free up officers to focus on high-priority calls for service. The Civilian Crash Investigators Program is on track to launch in July of 2024. The CMPD will hire 16 civilians to investigate property damage-only traffic accidents. The civilians will undergo a four-week training certification program through the North Carolina Justice Academy. These positions are currently posted on the city of Charlotte's website and CMPD is actively recruiting for these individuals.

Looking ahead in 2024, the CMPD will continue efforts to reduce violent crime and property crime. The Department will also continue to invest in strategic initiatives, juvenile diversion and lowering the current officer shortage through recruitment efforts.

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

• Violent crimes: 1,627 offenses in 2024 compared to 1,642 offenses in 2023.
• Homicides: 34 in 2024 compared to 26 in 2023.
• Aggravated assaults: 1,211 in 2024 compared to 1,244 in 2023.
• Rapes: 55 in 2024 compared to 66 in 2023.
• Armed robberies: 209 in 2024 compared to 202 in 2023.
• Property crimes: 8,531 offenses in 2024 compared to 8,191 in 2023.
• Residential burglaries: 406 in 2024 compared to 416 in 2023.
• Commercial burglaries: 538 in 2024 compared to 433 in 2023.
• Larcenies from automobiles: 2,303 in 2024 compared to 2,358 in 2023.
• Vehicle thefts: 1,941 in 2024 compared to 1,491 in 2023.
• Arsons: 39 in 2024 compared to 30 in 2023.

Follow this link to review graphics from our First 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

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: 1,335 in 2023 compared to 1,452 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)