FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 25, 2021
The Charlottesville Police Department is pleased to present the 2020 Annual Report.
The goal of this report is to give the community a glimpse into CPD with crime statistics, and how our department strives to deliver “Service Beyond the Call” with numerous community engagement events.
2020 was one of the most challenging years in recent history, as the COVID-19 pandemic ravaged the nation, and calls for social justice and police reform grew louder following the murder of George Floyd. We supported the many rallies, marches, and demonstrations, while also partnering with our local and state Health Districts to protect the health and safety of the greater community.
Overall crime continues to trend downward, with a decrease of 11 percent from 2019, and a decrease of 21 percent from 2018, respectively. Unfortunately, CPD continues to monitor a disturbing trend with the rise in gun violence, similar to what the nation is experiencing. CPD recorded four (4) homicides for the year 2020, which is double the number of homicides from 2019.
The number of shots fired incidents has also increased dramatically, with 292 calls for service recorded in 2020. This is a 42 percent increase from 2019, and a 37 percent increase from 2018, respectively. CPD is hopeful that with continued support of gun violence prevention programs by the City, and with continued community partnerships, we will see a decrease in these trends.
Although we have faced and will continue to face these ongoing challenges, this department remains committed to supporting the community its serves and help the most vulnerable. 2020 was an unforgettable year with fundraising events, where we raised more than $10,000 in just six weeks to support the Charlottesville area Toy Lift with our Winter Wool Campaign. Our officers also partnered with a local community activist to distribute “Bags of Hope,” which helped those struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This report is readily available in an electronic format on the Annual Reports page of our website. However, those who wish to receive a paper copy can stop by the CPD Lobby, located at 606 East Market Street, during normal business hours.
Media Contact
Tyler Hawn
Public Information Officer
Charlottesville Police Department
434-409-3439
hawnto@charlottesville.gov