The challenges facing our Atlanta Police Department are daunting, but much has been accomplished over the past five years.  .   

A review of Part I (violent) crime statistics since Mayor Franklin and Chief Pennington took office in late 2002 and the Atlanta Police Foundation was established in 2003, reveals a marked improvement.  Violent crimes recorded in 2002 were 49,450; compared to 46,722 in 2003; 41,107 in 2004; 38,609 in 2005; and 40,877 in 2006. These statistics stand in stark contrast to 1989 when Atlanta experienced an all time high of 88,241 violent crimes. Nationwide, cities experienced an increase in violent crime in 2007 and Atlanta was no exception; preliminary statistics show an approximate 12% increase in Part I crimes.   With the complete reassignment and training of the Narcotics Unit during 2007, progress is being made to address the influx of drug activity into Atlanta.  Since the introduction of COBRA (Command Operations Briefing to Revitalize Atlanta) the Atlanta Police Department has been able to make significant progress in fighting crime in Atlanta. because COBRA allows the department to track crime activity and statistics and redirect resources to areas of need.  As well, the strategic implementation of APF programs especially in the areas of recruitment, training and scholarship for officers will continue to make an impact thereby assisting APD to proactively address crime in Atlanta.

For more information on crime statistics in your area, please check the APD website.