Violent crime in Charlotte has seen a significant decrease from this time last year, according to new data released by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department on Wednesday.  

CMPD's third-quarter public safety report found an 8% decrease in overall crime, highlighted by a 20% drop in violent crime. Property crime is down 5%, the department said. The report comes amid growing concerns about violence in Charlotte, including the fallout of the fatal stabbing of Iryna Zarutska on a light rail train in South End, which garnered national attention about public safety solutions.

Lt. Crystal Fletcher said Charlotte has seen a 24% reduction in homicides, going from 82 in 2024 to 62 this year. Aggravated assaults which include shootings are down 19% and robberies saw a 22% reduction.

"While this is a notable decrease, 62 homicides are still too many," Fletcher said. "Disagreements should never end in tragedy. Violence should never be the option, regardless of your beliefs, your background or your circumstances." 

Read more: https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/crime/cmpd-third-quarter-crime-report-charlotte-violent-crime-data-iryna-zarutska-homicides/275-3600889e-0a7d-444a-a7dd-2b651ec724c2

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