The Camden County Police Department reports a continued decline in crime rates for the first half of 2025. Total crime has decreased by 13%, while violent crime has seen a 12% reduction compared to the same period last year. Notably, homicides have dropped by 30%, and aggravated assaults with firearms are down by 31%.
This marks the lowest number of violent crimes recorded in the first six months of any year since records began, with only 445 incidents reported. This represents a significant improvement from 2012 when there were 999 total violent crimes, indicating a 55% decrease over the past thirteen years.
Louis Cappelli Jr., Director of the Camden County Board of Commissioners, attributes this progress to transformative community policing initiatives. “I think it’s important to point out this data for the first six months of the year because it points to an ongoing trend of a safer, stronger city,” Cappelli said. He praised both law enforcement officers and community members for their roles in reducing crime.
Chief Gabriel Rodriguez emphasized the importance of community engagement in policing efforts. “For our agency, we need to continue to evolve and grow every day with our community,” Rodriguez stated. He highlighted initiatives like the Village Initiative and partnerships with organizations such as Hopeworks that provide workforce development training for youth.
The department celebrated its fifth year facilitating events through the Village Initiative, which includes activities like open gym sessions and neighborhood cleanups. The police department also collaborates with partners like the Salvation Army and Boys and Girls Club to offer programs beyond its main budget.
Camden City Mayor Victor Carstarphen acknowledged these improvements: “Safety is the foundation for the tremendous progress taking place across Camden.” He noted that reduced crime rates allow families to thrive and businesses to invest confidently.
Crime statistics have been on a downward trend since they began being recorded in Camden City in 1974. From a peak of 14,685 crime victims in 1991, numbers have fallen significantly, reaching just over three thousand last year.
“Clearly, all key indicators and statistics are down,” said Camden City Council President Angel Fuentes. “Together, as a community, we are building a safer city and a better Camden.”
