The Fayetteville Police Department (FPD) announced on Tuesday, Nov. 26 that total overall crime has dropped to its lowest point in ten years, with a 10% reduction in total crime compared to the same period last year. This remarkable milestone reflects the department’s commitment to creating a safer city through strategic policing, community partnerships, and innovative crime prevention initiatives. 

Violent crime in Fayetteville continues to decline significantly, with homicides down by 56.75% and aggravated assaults dropping by 28.8%. Property crime has also decreased by 4.91%, with fewer burglaries and larcenies reported this year. These reductions highlight a decade of progress, as the city has seen a 29% decrease in total crime since 2014. 

“Reaching a 10-year low in overall crime is a reflection of our officers’ hard work, the strength of our community partnerships, and the continued support from city leadership,” said Fayetteville Police Chief Kemberle Braden in a press release. “While we are proud of these results, we recognize there is still work to be done. We remain committed to reducing crime, enhancing public safety, and strengthening the trust between our officers and the community.” 

Community engagement remains a cornerstone of FPD’s strategy to reduce crime and build trust. During the third quarter, the department’s Faith in Action initiative supported 614 residents, providing Narcan to combat opioid overdoses, food and groceries for nearly 600 individuals, and hygiene supplies for over 200 people. Events like National Night Out and Back-to-School outreach efforts connected officers with the community, while youth-focused programs such as the Police Activity League (PAL) created meaningful opportunities for engagement. 

The department has also prioritized school safety, deploying School Resource Officers (SROs) to 49 schools within the city, ensuring that schools remain safe spaces for students and staff. 

Traffic safety has seen improvements as well, with 35,884 traffic stops conducted as part of the #2024NOMORE campaign. These stops addressed reckless driving and speeding, key concerns raised by the community. 

FPD’s partnerships with federal and state agencies have played a key role in these reductions. Through initiatives like the Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP), the department removed 25 illegal firearms from Fayetteville streets in the third quarter alone. Collaborative operations such as "Vapor Trail" dismantled organized criminal activities, seizing 12,839 pounds of marijuana, 24 firearms, and over $2.9 million in assets. 

The Fayetteville Fire Department (FFD) also presented its third quarter performance report for 2024 to Fayetteville City Council during a regular council meeting on Nov. 25, showcasing significant progress in emergency response, community involvement, and disaster management efforts. 

The quarter was marked by exemplary disaster response during Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene. The FFD conducted rescues, evacuations, and extensive structural assessments. Crews provided critical support, including water distribution during a Hoke County water system failure, showcasing the department's regional impact. 

"Our team has demonstrated unwavering dedication, innovation, and community focus this quarter,” said Fire Chief Kevin Dove. “These accomplishments reflect our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Fayetteville's residents." 

The department maintained a strong response record, with total response times averaging 7 minutes and 25 seconds, achieving consistent improvements compared to previous years. Fire responses decreased to 274 incidents, with 67.79% of structure fires being confined to their room of origin, underscoring the benefits of early detection. While civilian fire fatalities were successfully avoided, there were 10 reported civilian injuries. Firefighter injuries also declined to two this quarter. 

Medical responses accounted for 4,801 calls, including 478 motor vehicle accidents and 64 cardiac arrest cases. The FFD administered Naloxone 54 times to address overdose emergencies. Hazardous materials incidents were also managed effectively, with 55 total responses ranging from natural gas leaks to hydrocarbon spills. 

The department prioritized community risk reduction, conducting 241 smoke alarm installations, 39 carbon monoxide detector installations, and 19 stove-top fire suppression unit placements. 

FFD conducted 24 community events and 29 community watch meetings engaging over 4,800 adults and children. Fire safety education, hands-only CPR events, and public station tours further reinforced the FFD's commitment to public engagement. 

For more information about the FFD or to schedule a smoke alarm installation, call 910-433-1116.

If you are interested in becoming a Fayetteville Police Officer, please visit JoinFayPD.com or call 910-723-4138.