In 2024, violent crime in Detroit dropped significantly, with homicides falling 19% to 203—the lowest since 1965—and non-fatal shootings decreasing 25%. This success is credited to a partnership of local, state, and federal agencies, as well as community groups, working together to address the crime spike during the Covid pandemic. Mayor Mike Duggan said, "This coalition came together two years ago to try to reverse the spike in violent crime during Covid," adding, "What’s happened is far more remarkable." Key efforts included new police strategies, a 99% police force capacity, and an increase in officers following wage hikes in 2022. Carjackings also dropped 15%, according to the City of Detroit.
U.S. Attorney Dawn Ison led the "One Detroit" crime reduction initiative, which reduced homicides and nonfatal shootings by 44%. She emphasized, "We remained committed to the principles that have guided our work for three years: focus, balance, and fairness." The strategy combined tough law enforcement with crime prevention efforts. Wayne County supported the effort by improving prosecutor offices, raising deputy wages, and focusing on gun crimes. Programs like the Fugitive Apprehension Service Team led to over 1,000 felony warrant arrests in 2024, as stated by the City of Detroit.
Community partnerships have been key to reducing violent crime in Detroit. Programs like ShotStoppers outperformed citywide crime reduction efforts, while the Detroit-Wayne Integrated Health Network worked with the police to deescalate crises. This approach, combining law enforcement with community and mental health support, has reshaped Detroit's strategy, focusing on both safety and wellbeing for residents, as reported by the City of Detroit.
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