In a recent government meeting, the Chief of Police reported a significant decrease in gun violence in the city, with shots fired dropping from 21,125 in 2023 to 1,945 in 2024, marking an 8% reduction. Actual shootings also saw a decline, from 261 incidents last year to 218 this year, representing a 16% decrease.

The Chief attributed these positive trends to a collaborative effort among community members and law enforcement, emphasizing the role of advanced technology in crime prevention. The department's Real-Time Crime Center is now monitoring over 1,600 surveillance cameras, surpassing its initial limit of 1,500. This technological enhancement is believed to have raised awareness among potential offenders.

Additionally, the Chief highlighted the successful arrest of 84 individuals for burglary this year, a record number for the city, attributing these results to the effective use of surveillance technology. The department is also seeking grants to expand camera coverage in specific neighborhoods, responding to community requests for increased safety measures, including speeding cameras in residential areas.

The meeting underscored the importance of technology in modern policing and the ongoing commitment to enhancing public safety through community engagement and innovative solutions.