For the first time in 50 years, Camden, New Jersey, has recorded a summer without a single homicide. According to the Camden County Police Department (CCPD), this milestone covers the official summer period from June 21 to September 22, 2025. The city, once known as one of the most dangerous municipalities in the nation prior to May 2013, continues to see significant reductions in violent crime.
This achievement aligns with earlier data reported on July 1, which showed that only 445 violent crimes were recorded in the first half of 2025—the lowest figure for that period in five decades. Under Chief Gabriel Rodriguez and his command staff, CCPD has implemented strategies focusing on community policing and technological advancements.
Chief Gabriel Rodriguez reflected on the significance of this development: “Growing up in this city and working as a police officer here I don’t ever remember a time period where we went through the entire summer without a homicide,” Rodriguez said. “I believe this important marker speaks volumes to the work of the men and women in this department and their ongoing commitment to our community. Furthermore, we still have miles to go and promises to keep to our neighbors throughout the city but make no mistake, this is a big deal and something to be recognized. Additionally, I would be remiss if I didn’t say that one homicide is too many in this city, and we will keep working until we don’t need to stand by a grieving mother, father, and family member. We will continue to work as hard as possible until we are celebrating zero victims not just for the summer, but for the entire year.”
The department’s approach includes programs such as the Village Initiative—now in its fifth year—which offers activities like open gym sessions, senior bingo nights, block-party barbecues, movie nights, dodgeball and flag football programs. The CCPD also provides outreach for seniors and organizes neighborhood cleanups.
Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli Jr. commented on CCPD’s long-term strategy: “It’s hard to believe when we started this agency and stood it up after some of the most violent years in city history that we could stand here today and talk about a homicide free summer,” Cappelli continued. “We knew if we deployed the right strategies by working hand and hand with our residents and neighbors a day like this would come, but it wouldn’t be possible without the constant dedication of our officers.”
Community partnerships have played an important role as well. Organizations such as Salvation Army, Cooper Foundation, Boys and Girls Club of Camden County, and Sixers Youth Foundation support programs beyond CCPD’s operating budget by providing safe spaces for youth engagement.
Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen highlighted public safety improvements: “Public safety remains the foundation for all progress and is at the heart of our city’s revitalization,” said Camden Mayor Victor G. Carstarphen. “We value the importance of a safe community, and this is evident as Camden has not had a single loss of life this summer and is the safest it’s been in 55 years. Safety is what allows our families to thrive, businesses to invest, and children to play outside without fear. Our officers understand the importance of community engagement, and those efforts are resulting in transformational change in every neighborhood.”
Technological advancements have also contributed; CCPD recently launched a drone program that works alongside its tactical center network—improving situational awareness for frontline policing.
Camden County Prosecutor Grace C. MacAulay noted: “Through strong community partnerships and a firm commitment from law enforcement, Camden saw no lives lost to homicide this summer,” said Camden County Prosecutor Grace C. MacAulay. “A few short years ago, this accomplishment would have been unimaginable. This is proof that when we work together, peace is possible.”
Since recordkeeping began in 1974 total crime rates have declined steadily in Camden City; so far in 2025 there has been an overall decrease of 43% in homicides compared with last year at this time—with eight homicides recorded through September 23—and seven arrests made out of those cases (an 88% solve rate).
Federal funding has helped expand technology resources for CCPD’s efforts against property crime across Camden City—a process supported by Congressman Donald Norcross who remarked: “A decade ago, Camden City had one of the highest homicide rates in North America. This summer there were none. That progress shows what’s possible when you invest in community policing work together with community give officers training equipment they need keep people safe,” Norcross said.“There is still more work do but Camden’s story proves power working together build safer stronger communities.”
Since CCPD began operations fully in 2014 homicides have dropped by 64%.
