Rocky Mount Police report 36% increase in crime despite overall decline in violence

Rocky Mount's City Council Committee of the Whole meeting on July 14 revealed significant updates on crime statistics and police department operations, highlighting both challenges and successes in public safety.

The police department reported a 36% increase in violent crimes from the first to the second quarter of 2025, with 80 more aggravated assaults and 75 additional property crimes. Despite this uptick, year-to-date figures show a 10% overall decrease in crime compared to the previous year, with violent crime down 8% and property crime down 11%. This trend indicates that while there are spikes in certain areas, the overall safety of the community is improving.

Calls for police service have decreased by 20%, with the department responding to approximately 19,200 calls in the last quarter. The primary reasons for these calls included direct patrol requests, traffic enforcement, and assistance to emergency medical services. Interestingly, arrests have increased by 16%, but this figure may reflect repeat offenders rather than a rise in crime, as individuals can be arrested multiple times for the same offense.

Traffic accidents have also seen a decline, with incidents down 3% and property damage from these accidents reduced by 15%. The department noted a significant drop in traffic stops and warnings issued, aligning with the overall trend of reduced police activity in certain areas.

The police chief emphasized the importance of leveraging technology in crime reduction efforts. Since 2020, there has been a 33% decrease in violent crime, attributed to improved staffing and the use of advanced crime-fighting technologies. The department has successfully reduced vacancies from 42 in 2020 to zero currently, allowing for more proactive policing.

The transition to the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) has also enhanced transparency and accountability in crime reporting, providing a more detailed view of incidents and victims. The department is now able to compare its data with other cities through UNC benchmarking, which will help in assessing response times and crime trends.

In conclusion, while Rocky Mount faces challenges with certain crime spikes, the overall trend indicates a positive direction in public safety. The police department's commitment to utilizing technology and community feedback, alongside a fully staffed force, positions the city for continued improvement in crime reduction and community trust.