Memphis is seeing historic progress when it comes to public safety. According to new data released by the Memphis Police Department (MPD), overall crime across the city has dropped to its lowest level in 25 years.
From January through August 2025, MPD reported 28,660 overall crime incidents — a 23% decrease from the same period in 2024 and a 37% decrease compared to 2023. The numbers mark a significant shift from 2006, when Memphis recorded its highest number of overall crime incidents at 46,334.
Crime trends moving in the right direction
- Property crimes — including larceny, burglary, and robbery — are all at 25-year lows.
- Violent crimes have also shown marked decreases:
- Murders are at a six-year low, with 146 recorded this year compared to 181 in 2024 and 225 in 2023.
- Aggravated assaults are at a five-year low, with 4,308 reported so far in 2025.
These improvements mirror national trends. Other major cities, including New York, Baltimore, and Chicago, have also reported notable declines in crime in 2025.
Building trust through transparency
While questions about crime data are being raised at the state level, MPD leaders emphasized the department’s commitment to accuracy and transparency. MPD Chief C.J. Davis reaffirmed that all reporting follows strict state and federal standards, with regular outside audits conducted by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI).
“Our goal is not to produce ‘good numbers,’” Davis said. “Our goal is to reduce crime, build safer neighborhoods, and give the public the truth.”
The TBI confirmed that MPD remains in compliance with its review process and is on schedule for its next three-year audit.
A safer, stronger Memphis
With crime at a 25-year low, these results highlight the efforts of law enforcement, community organizations, and residents working together to build a safer city. The data points to a Memphis that is not only tackling challenges head-on, but also making measurable progress that contributes to the city’s overall growth and vitality.
