CHARLOTTE, NC (FOX 46 CHARLOTTE) – Overall, Charlotte Mecklenburg police say that Charlotte crime has decreased by 6 percent compared to that time last year.
But Chief Johnny Jennings says it’s still no time to celebrate. One of the concerns is the rise in sexual assault, which is up about 42 percent. Chief Jennings says there is no answer to the reason and more needs to be done.
“We are seeing crime has decreased and we have been doing well so far this year. But we have to be able to be at a point where none of this is acceptable, ”Jennings said.
In the university area, people are hoping the work in their area will continue after a Circle K on Harris Station Boulevard was shot a little over 24 hours ago. Rich Robinson is a business owner after that shootout and says that’s only part of how much crime is on the rise here.
“I am very disappointed to hear of another murder in the university town,” said Robinson. And it’s not just Robinson Tara Chappel who feel the same way. “I’ve noticed a difference over the years,” said Chappel. “My parents have lived in this area for over 20 years and the climate has changed.”
The CMPD’s crime map shows that over 160 crimes have been reported in the area in the past week. The department has created a criminal weapons suppression team and works with the FBI and the US Attorney General to try to contain trends in gun-based crime and prevent future gun violence. Authorities say you can call Crimestoppers and report suspicious activity to help you out.
“As we continue to see this work and continue to see our officials accept this work and the community accept our officials, I think we will see great strides,” Jennings said.
