Charleston Reporter

The Charleston Police Department has released preliminary data on crime trends for 2024, with the final annual report expected in the coming weeks. The department's analysis of five-year data trends from 2019 to 2024 provides a comprehensive view aimed at minimizing the influence of outlier years and supporting informed decision-making.

According to the preliminary figures, overall crime in Charleston decreased by 10.7% citywide in 2024. Violent crime saw a reduction of 5.7%, while property crime fell by 12.2%. Specific categories also experienced significant reductions: homicides were down by 47% with six reported cases, robberies decreased by 22.7% with 68 incidents, sexual offenses dropped by 28.9% with 36 incidents, burglaries reduced by 21.5% with 221 incidents, and motor vehicle thefts decreased by 27.9% with a total of 340 incidents.

However, some areas saw increases: aggravated assaults rose by 4.3%, totaling 328 incidents compared to a five-year average of approximately 314; theft from motor vehicles had a slight increase of 0.7%, recording 785 incidents; and firearms stolen from vehicles increased by 8.2%, with a total of 194 firearms reported stolen.

The report also highlights overdose trends, noting that overdose incidents totaled at132 for the year, reflecting a decrease of32%. Overdose deaths numbered31, marking a32.6% decline from the five-year average.

In terms of impaired driving and fatal collisions, DUI arrests surged by31%, reaching592 in2024 compared to452 in2023.Fatal collisions decreased significantly by40.5%, totaling10 against an average16.8 per year over five years.

Chief Chito Walker commended both officers and community members for their roles in these reductions: "These reductions reflect the dedication and hard work of our team and the proactive efforts of our community." He urged citizens to remember that carrying weapons comes with responsibilities: "A vehicle is not a secure storage facility for valuables or firearms."

For further information regarding this release, Sgt.C.Stinson can be contacted via email at cpdpublicinformationteam@charleston-sc.gov.

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