CMPD Reports Mixed Results in 2026 Crime Statistics

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is reporting a notable 17 percent decline in overall crime this year. The statistics reveal a 15 percent drop in violent crime and a 17 percent decrease in property crime. However, the department is also facing a concerning 10 percent rise in homicides, with 66 incidents recorded thus far in 2026, up from 60 during the same period in the previous year. Additionally, there has been a seven percent increase in rapes.

Officials attribute efforts in crime reduction within the Center City area as a contributing factor. Captain Jeremiah Blow commented, “We’ve had several targeted operations and initiatives that have significantly influenced the crime trends in the Central Division. Uptown has hosted more than 130 major events this year, yet crime has remained low.” Meanwhile, CMPD’s Entertainment District Unit, which concentrates on Uptown and South End, has made over 400 arrests and confiscated nearly 240 firearms this year.