Overall crime in the city of Los Angeles declined in 2024, with homicides dropping 14 percent and shooting victims decreasing by 19 percent, Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell announced today.
Mayor Karen Bass joined McDonnell and members of the LAPD Board of Police Commissioners at a news conference Monday at Hollenbeck Division in Boyle Heights, where they noted the location was fitting to announce the milestone, as homicides in that neighborhood dropped by 65 percent last year.
“While we recognize this progress, we remain committed to sustaining these reductions and ensuring that every resident feels safe in their home, on their street and in their community,” Bass said. “Public safety is my top priority, and the city of Los Angeles will continue to take bold steps to keep crime down and hold those who commit crime accountable.”
Key findings of the LAPD’s data showed the following in 2024 compared to 2023:
— Homicide cases decreased 14 percent (-47);
— Victims shot cases decreased by approximately 19 percent (-225);
— LAPD secured 7,634 illegal firearms, including 790 ghost guns;
— Rape, robbery and aggravated assault, also known as violent crimes, decreased by 2,586 cases (30,574 Person/Violent Crimes in 2023);
— Aggravated assault cases decreased by 2,371 (20,042 aggravated assaults in 2023);
— Rape cases decreased by 97 (1,505 rapes in 2023);
— Robberies remained just about flat with 8,637 cases (8,696 robberies in 2023)
McDonnell added that LAPD’s 2024 crime data reflected their commitment to public safety and the strength of community partnerships. “While we celebrate this progress, there is still work to be done and we realize if you were a crime victim these numbers may not carry weight. We hear you,” McDonnell added. “The LAPD remains committed to ensuring every resident feels safe in their neighborhood. Together, we will continue driving these numbers in the right direction as we look ahead to the rest of 2025.”
Meanwhile, data showed a decline in both property crimes and traffic collisions. According to the LAPD, officers made hundreds of arrests related to organized retail theft and motor vehicle crimes. The department recovered more than $36 million in stolen merchandise through the regional Organized Retail Crime Task Force.
