Savannah reports significant crime reduction with 20% decline in violent incidents

During the recent Savannah City Council Workshop held on February 13, 2025, significant discussions centered around public safety and crime statistics in the city. The Savannah Police Department (SPD) reported a notable reduction in crime rates, attributing this positive trend not only to their efforts but also to the active involvement of community partners and citizens.

According to the SPD, total Part 1 crimes have decreased by 10% compared to February 2023 and by 17% compared to February 2022. Violent crime specifically saw a remarkable 20% reduction from the previous year, with 90% of violent crime categories experiencing declines. Property crime also showed improvement, decreasing by 7% compared to February 2023, with 60% of property crime categories reporting reductions.

The statistics reveal that February 2024 marked a significant low in crime rates, with total Part 1 crimes falling below the five-year average. Violent crimes dropped below a thousand incidents for the first time since February 2019, while property crimes reached their second-lowest level in the same timeframe, totaling 4,300 incidents.

However, the SPD acknowledged some increases in specific crime categories, particularly in property crimes such as commercial burglary and auto theft. Notably, the report highlighted the concerning trend of gun thefts from vehicles, with 266 guns reported stolen in February 2024—an increase of 9% from the previous year. Alarmingly, 208 of these firearms were taken from unlocked vehicles, emphasizing the need for residents to secure their weapons properly.

In addition to crime statistics, the traffic unit reported investigating 14 fatal car accidents, with a concerning rise in pedestrian-involved fatalities despite an overall decrease in total fatal accidents.

The discussions at the workshop underscored the importance of community engagement in maintaining public safety and the ongoing challenges that the SPD faces. As the city continues to address these issues, the collaboration between law enforcement and citizens will be crucial in sustaining the downward trend in crime rates and ensuring a safer Savannah for all residents.