Atlantic City’s mayor has insisted crime is down this year.
Now, the numbers are backing up that claim.
Overall crime decreased more than 11 percent in the first quarter of this year based upon the same time period last year, according to the N.J. State Police Offense Report.
A highlight is that there have been no homicides in the city this year, compared to six in the first three months of 2024.
"There's this exaggerated narrative that Atlantic City is not clean and safe, but the facts and data tell a different story as the Atlantic City Police Department keeps showing why they are the best police department in the world," Mayor Marty Small said.
Crimes against people saw the most significant drop from 552 last year to 429 this year, a 22.28 percent reduction. Those include homicide, assault and sex offenses.
There were three non-fatal shootings this quarter, an increase from two last year.
Property crimes were down 4.3 percent, going from 674 to 645.
Crimes against society — which include things like drug and weapons offenses or prostitution — dropped from 201 to 192, or about 4½ percent.
Overall offenses are down from 1,427 to 1,266, for an 11.28 percent drop.
Arrests have remained consistent, with 1,161 individuals charged in the first quarter of 2024, compared to 1,159 in 2025.
The city has seen juvenile arrests increase significantly, from 67 charged in 2025 compared to 36 in 2024, an 86 percent increase.
The Citywide Surveillance Camera Project is is about two-thirds complete, with new cameras coming online weekly, according to the department.
That all is expected to further enhance crime investigations, motor vehicle crash analysis, and officer safety by providing real-time data to officers responding to calls for service.
“With the ongoing hard work, commitment and dedication of our officers, our partnerships with the city administration and other law enforcement agencies, the integration of advanced technologies and the support of the community, I am confident that we will continue to reduce crime and make a meaningful impact on public safety in Atlantic City,” Sarkos said.
The Casino Reinvestment Development Authority has approved a $3 million grant to fund additional patrols in the Tourism District.
It allowed increased police along the Boardwalk, and Pacific and Atlantic avenues, which will continue through March 31, 2026.
Five new utility terrain vehicles also will be deployed, enabling officers to better navigate the beach and Boardwalk areas. These new patrols will complement existing officer presence via bicycles and foot patrols, according to the department.
"Whether it be through added manpower, new equipment and technology or promotions, the Small administration will continue to support our Law Enforcement in every way possible to make sure this downward trend in crime continues," the mayor said.
