Numbers show violent crime is down but FOP still wants National Guard support
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – WCCB Charlotte has new data that gives a more in-depth look at crime in the Queen City as some organizations in Charlotte are asking for National Guard support to crack down on crime.
Data shows violent crime like homicides and robberies are down 20% compared to this time last year. Iryna Zarutska’s murder on the Light Rail has public safety in Charlotte under a microscope.
The Fraternal Order of Police in Charlotte sent a letter to local, state and federal leaders asking to bring in the National Guard to help crack down on crime and address staff shortages. The FOP President writes in part “despite statistical progress violent crime continues to be a daily reality in Charlotte.”
WCCB requested data on violent crimes from the last three years. We found out of 13 CMPD patrol divisions, Central division which includes Uptown and South End has seen increases in all violent crime categories compared to this time last year.
Roy Taylor has more than 45 years experience in law enforcement and says National Guard troops would give residents the false perception that crime is worse than it is.
“It doesn’t look good for us to run down the street and Humvees and other military tactical vehicles,” Taylor said. “It looks like we’re a country under siege and we certainly aren’t.”
Data shows Charlotte saw 59 homicides from January to late September this year. There were 74 at the same time in 2024, 62 in 2023 and 83 in 2022.
“We need to make sure that the people who are policing are properly trained and understand the do’s and don’ts of the Constitution, so that we don’t inadvertently violate somebody’s civil rights or that we use too much force,” Taylor said.
Taylor adds local officials should make data driven decisions for public safety.
“Keep looking at the numbers and ask for the clearance rates and what they’re doing to develop community trust. What kind of programs are we developing or have implemented that are showing results in these problem areas?,” Taylor asked.
Mayor Vi Lyles says she does not plan to ask for National Guard help at this time. Several city council members have also spoken against bringing troops to Charlotte.
