Homicides in Camden, New Jersey, were down 90% during the first quarter of 2026 compared to 2012, according to data shared by the Camden County Police Department on April 3, 2026.
Officials said the city has also seen a 57% reduction in overall violent crime and an 89% reduction in shootings throughout the city’s 19 neighborhoods compared to the same period in 2012, the year when the city department was disbanded and reformed as Camden County Metro Police.
The new data came after the city recorded last year its first homicide-free winter in 50 years.
Chief Gabriel Rodriguez said the new statistics are great indicators of progress in the city, but he added that their work is far from over.
“We continue to make important progress with all of our partner organizations in the city to reduce crime to historic levels not seen in over 50 years,” Police Chief Gabriel Rodriguez said. “The men and women of this agency should be very proud of this accomplishment, but we are by no means done our work here. This is not a declaration of a victory over crime; we know that until every city block is secure, we have a critical job to do and one that is vitally important to the residents of Camden.”
Read the full data below:
Police said there are a few things that have been crucial in reducing crime across the city. Those efforts include new technology like cameras and drones, community policing and community initiatives, like partnering with the city for block parties and community cleanups, and with nonprofits to launch after school activities for children.
“When I started and we were knocking on doors and introducing ourselves as new Camden police officers, there was a lot of apprehension. There were people who didn’t trust us, didn’t trust the police in general and didn’t want to talk to us,” Deputy Chief Chris Sarlo said. “Now most people know their officers by name.”
Residents said they have also felt the difference.
“A lot has been improved. It’s been quieter. A lot of things going on. Looks like it’s been cleaned up,” Evelyn Rich, who lives in South Jersey, said.
Camden City Mayor Victor G. Carstarphen highlighted the department’s role in the significant milestone.
“In Camden, safety isn’t just a statistic, it’s our top priority,” Carstarphen said. “It is the strong foundation for every other form of progress. It’s what allows families to thrive, businesses to invest, and children to play outside without fear.”
Police also said that as of April 2, 2026, the city has only recorded three shootings, a 70% drop from the same time last year.
“You saw the uphill battle, but you also saw the progress,” Sarlo said.
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