Annapolis Police Department reports rising crime rates and vehicle thefts in Ward 8

The Annapolis Public Safety Committee convened on March 3, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding crime statistics and public safety measures in the city. A key highlight of the meeting was the Annapolis Police Department's (APD) report on crime trends, revealing a significant 67% reduction in overall crime for the previous year, a statistic that Chief Ed Jackson emphasized as a notable achievement for the department.

During the meeting, Chief Jackson presented detailed crime data for 2024, breaking down incidents by ward. Ward 8, where the meeting was held, ranked fourth in total crime, with notable concerns regarding motor vehicle theft, which was the highest among all wards. The chief noted that many stolen vehicles were recovered, but a significant number remained unaccounted for, raising questions about vehicle security practices among residents.

The discussion also touched on the complexities of crime reporting, particularly with the transition to the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS), which allows for a more comprehensive accounting of crimes. This new system counts all offenses in an incident rather than just the most serious, providing a clearer picture of crime dynamics in the community.

Alderman Arnett raised concerns about the nature of vehicle thefts, questioning how locked cars could still be stolen. The police indicated that many vehicles had spare keys left inside, and some thefts were facilitated by electronic devices that bypass security systems. This prompted a call for increased public awareness about vehicle security.

Another significant topic was the rising issue of drug-related incidents, particularly overdoses linked to fentanyl. Committee members discussed the need for law enforcement to adapt their approach to these cases, potentially classifying certain overdoses as homicides if intent could be established. A proposed bill in the Maryland General Assembly aims to facilitate such charges, reflecting a growing recognition of the dangers posed by fentanyl in the community.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the police department to enhance community outreach and education on crime prevention, particularly regarding vehicle security and the dangers of drug use. The discussions underscored the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and the community in addressing public safety challenges and fostering a safer environment for all Annapolis residents.