Everett police report declines in several crime categories, say youth violence and traffic safety remain priorities

Everett police told the City Public Safety Committee that several categories of reported crime fell in 2024 compared with recent averages, but officials cautioned the city still faces persistent problems with youth violence, stolen firearms and pedestrian safety.

Police spokesperson (department presenter) said crimes against persons were down about 17% in 2024 compared with a three‑year average and were below 2019 levels. The spokesperson added that while overall violent crime has fallen in some measures, “youth violence hasn’t decreased” and remains a focus for the department.

The department grouped reported incidents into three categories — crimes against persons, crimes against property and crimes against society — and highlighted specific trends. “Shots fired” incidents were reported 8% below the department’s three‑year average and 29% below 2023, the spokesperson said, noting the figures capture incidents where a shot could be confirmed (shell casings, bullet damage or other verification), not only arrests. Auto thefts and other property crimes were also down; the department said crimes against property were down 27% from the three‑year average.

Nut graf: The statistics provide context for near‑term enforcement and program priorities but do not remove the need for ongoing work. City staff and council members pressed police to maintain focus on youth‑targeted outreach, rapid removal of visible disorder (graffiti and…