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APD reports declines in homicides and shootings but flags rise in robberies and aggravated assaults
Summary
Deputy Jason Smith told the committee that year-to-date homicides and shootings were down while robberies and aggravated assaults had increased; he highlighted a recent arrest in a random shooting investigation and urged use of precinct parking for safer marketplace exchanges.
Deputy Jason Smith of the Atlanta Police Department briefed the committee Oct. 13 on crime trends as the city entered the holiday season, reporting year-to-date declines in homicides and shootings but noting increases in robberies and aggravated assaults in many zones.
"We're down 7% for the year," Deputy Smith said, and added, "Homicides continue to be down. We're down 28% year to date. Our shootings are also down 14% year to date." He cautioned, however, that the department had shifted resources to address upticks in robberies and aggravated assaults and said many aggravated-assault incidents stem from escalating disputes and domestic situations.
Smith described a multi-unit investigation that led to the arrest of a suspect after officers identified an occupied, reportedly firing vehicle and tracked the suspect using camera systems and coordinated patrols. The suspect was charged with multiple felonies, including aggravated assault on law enforcement and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Smith urged residents using online marketplaces to meet in police precinct parking lots, noting precincts now display signage and the department encourages exchanges at stations. Councilmembers requested follow-up on localized problems such as vehicle burnouts on Jonesboro Road and the availability and access of precinct front desks in some zones.
Smith also reported successful public-safety operations during weekend events including Georgia State University homecoming and a major Pride festival in Piedmont Park with no serious incidents reported. He noted patrols for fall-break activities and community programs such as midnight basketball and youth football.
No committee action was required on the report.
