“We're experiencing a decline in violent crime at this point, and that's really something to celebrate,” Jenkins said.
PORTSMOUTH, VA —
18 people have been shot dead in Portsmouth this year alone.
Portsmouth Police Chief Steve Jenkins told residents about each murder Wednesday during a quarterly forum.
He began the meeting with a moment of silence as National Crime Victims' Rights Week continues. Before sharing the homicide data, Mr. Jenkins paid tribute to survivors of violent crimes and those left behind in the wake of tragedy.
Jenkins then moved on to showing attendees crime data for the first three months of this year compared to the same period in 2023. He touted a decline in violent crime during these periods. As of March 31st, crime was down 30% and overall crime was down 25%.
“We're experiencing a decline in violent crime at this point, and that's really something to celebrate,” Jenkins said.
But Jenkins also pointed out that 18 people have already lost their lives in Portsmouth this year, six of whom died after that data was released.
“Every life lost in this city is precious,” he told the crowd. “And even though we are celebrating victory by losing one person, there are still 18 people whose lives were cut short.”
These 18 deaths constitute 15 cases. Seven of them were arrested. Warrants have been issued for suspects in three cases, and police are still looking for answers in the remaining five cases. Two of these 15 cases are suspected to be gang-related.
Regarding this matter, Mr. Jenkins explained: “Not everyone who loses their life in this city is necessarily connected to gang activity. We want you to know that.”
Community activist Kalherb Moner was present at the meeting. He said all of Hampton Roads should come together around the goal of reducing crime.
“The problem is that crime in general overlaps. You can't say this is a Portsmouth problem or a Virginia Beach or Norfolk problem,” Monell said. “Some people may live in Portsmouth but commit crimes in other cities. So we definitely need to come together to make change.”
He added that he hopes things will improve if the community comes together.
“We face many challenges and it will take a lot of effort, but if we keep working, we will get better.”
Jenkins also emphasized the community's role in the rebuilding process, saying, “Once the yellow tape is removed and the police station leaves, the community will have no choice but to pick up the pieces.”
On the positive side, Jenkins also pointed to the department's increased hiring, with 149 positions filled in recent months. There are still 75 vacancies in various positions.