ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Police Department reports declining crime across major categories over the past three years.
What You Need To Know
Orlando police shared crime data from 2023-2025, reporting decreases in major categories
The city recorded 10 homicides last year, marking the lowest number since 1971
FRRC, a group that measures data through the community violence intervention program Peace Orlando, also reported decreases in gun homicides and injury-related shootings
Shootings, burglaries, motor vehicle thefts, and weapon violations each saw a more than 40% decrease. Violent crimes were reduced by 12%. Homicides were the largest decrease at 68%.
According to OPD, only 10 homicides were recorded in 2025. The agency says this was the lowest number since they started tracking the data in 1971.
In a news release shared Friday, Chief Eric Smith said, “Our mission is simple: prevent crime, protect people, and keep our neighborhoods safe. That means officers being visible, taking action, and building trust in the community. These numbers show that approach is working.”
The Major Cities Chiefs Association shared reports from agencies across the United States. According to the document, OPD saw a decrease in homicide, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.
Desmond Meade, the executive director of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition (FRRC), says Orlando leads the country in homicide reductions.
FRRC is staffed with people with prior criminal convictions who are working towards ending discrimination and increasing public safety. They visit Orlando neighborhoods with the highest rates of violence.
The group launched Peace Orlando three years ago, a community violence intervention initiative funded by the city. Meade says since launching the program, their data shows improvements in gun-related deaths and injuries.
“I think it’s something that the city should be proud of for their vision to partner with community-based organizations. I think our other community-based partners should be proud of that for the role that they played in providing some wraparound services. And I think everyone should be proud of those numbers and would want to see those numbers continue,” Meade stated.
Meade says their three-year results show an 88% reduction in gun homicides and a 71% decline in injury-related shootings.
“We have been able to address gun violence and drastically reduce it in a way that doesn’t cause anyone to challenge gun rights. It also doesn’t cause anyone to question what our law enforcement is doing. We were able to use the people from our community that was closest to the pain to make that happen,” said Meade.
While the numbers are impressive, Meade says his organization’s goal is to get those stats even lower.
“When I see these numbers reduced like that, it fills my heart with pride knowing that it’s people just like me that’s out there, going in the trenches, that’s actually doing things to make their community a better place,” said Meade.