Durham Police Chief Reports 20% Drop in Violent Crime in Second Quarter

During the Durham City Council Work Session on August 21, 2025, Chief of Police presented the second quarter crime report for 2025, highlighting significant trends in both violent and property crime within the city. The report indicated a notable decrease in violent crime, with an overall reduction of nearly 20% compared to previous years. This decline is particularly significant given the national conversation surrounding crime rates.

The report detailed specific categories of violent crime, noting that there were 19 reportable homicides in the second quarter, with 17 classified as criminal homicides. Of these, two were linked to domestic violence. The Chief emphasized the importance of encouraging victims to report incidents, as many cases from prior years are still being resolved.

Robbery rates also showed a positive trend, with an 8% decrease overall. Individual robberies fell by 11%, while commercial robberies decreased by 7%. The Chief pointed out that a substantial portion of these commercial robberies involved organized retail theft, which has become a growing concern.

Aggravated assaults decreased by 16%, with fewer incidents resulting in multiple victims. However, the report noted that firearms were involved in 57% of aggravated assaults, raising concerns about gun violence in the community. The Chief acknowledged that while overall violent crime is trending down, perceptions of safety can vary significantly across different neighborhoods.

In terms of property crime, the report indicated a 4% decrease overall, with burglaries down by 19% compared to the same quarter in 2024. The Chief highlighted that power tools and vehicles remain common targets for theft, with Hyundai, Kia, and Toyota vehicles being the most frequently stolen.

The meeting also addressed staffing levels within the police department, which have improved to 75.2% filled positions. The Chief expressed optimism about ongoing recruitment efforts, including partnerships with local universities and community engagement initiatives aimed at attracting new officers.

Overall, the meeting underscored the police department's commitment to addressing crime through data-driven strategies and community collaboration. The Chief's report not only provided a snapshot of current crime trends but also emphasized the importance of continued vigilance and community involvement in enhancing public safety. As the city moves forward, the focus will remain on maintaining these positive trends while addressing the underlying issues contributing to crime in specific areas.