At a press conference held at the Newport News Police Department Headquarters on August 15, Chief Steve Drew and Mayor Phillip Jones discussed the city’s mid-year crime statistics, with particular attention to non-fatal shootings and homicides.
The data revealed that the number of homicides remained steady at 11, matching the figure from the same period last year. Non-fatal shootings have shown a slight decline. In 2024, Newport News saw its largest decrease in both homicides and non-fatal shootings in over ten years. Officials expressed hope that this trend would continue through 2025.
“These achievements are a testament to the unwavering dedication and hard work of the Newport News Police Department, alongside the community’s steadfast commitment to public safety,” said Chief of Police Steve Drew.
Mayor Phillip Jones emphasized collaborative efforts as key to recent progress. “These results are no accident — they are the product of sustained investment and strong partnerships. I’m grateful to Chief Drew, the dedicated men and women of the Newport News Police Department, and our community partners who work alongside us every day to safeguard lives, preserve futures, and strengthen communities,” he said.
According to officials, clearance rates for violent and property crimes in Newport News during 2025 have significantly surpassed national averages reported by the FBI for cities of similar size. The FBI’s national homicide clearance rate is 57.8%, while Newport News currently reports a homicide clearance rate of 118%.
Chief Drew stated: “Our team is actively working and dedicated to removing offenders from our streets, especially those who have a history of repeat offenses, which significantly contributes to deterring crime in our neighborhoods. By successfully solving more crimes, we not only bring justice to victims but also send a strong message that crime will not be tolerated in our city.”
Police attributed these outcomes to targeted strategies including Operation Bold Blue Line, focusing on violent offenders; use of technology such as Real Time Crime Center initiatives; specialized training; outreach programs; and ongoing collaboration with community partners.
For more information on crime reduction efforts in Newport News or details about partnerships involved in these initiatives, city officials encourage residents to reach out directly for resources.
