Portsmouth Police Chief Stephen Jenkins told City Council on Oct. 27 that the city’s overall crime rate dropped 2.77% from July through September. The decline reflects fewer property crimes, but the department noted increases in robberies and aggravated assaults during the same period.

Recent shootings raise community concerns

In the days surrounding the council briefing, the department released press statements documenting seven separate shootings:

• Oct. 27 – Mount Vernon Avenue
• Oct. 29 – Towne Point Road
• Oct. 31 – Lanier Crescent
• Nov. 1 – George Washington Highway
• Nov. 1 – Bird Lane
• Nov. 2 – Edison Avenue (deadly)
• Nov. 2 – Francis Street (deadly)

Both Nov. 2 incidents resulted in fatalities. Residents near the Francis Street shooting, such as Melanie Davis, expressed doubt that the city’s crime numbers reflect what they experience on the ground.

“As a resident, I don’t think crime is going down,” Davis said.

She added, “You turn around every day, you hear about shootings, you read about shootings. I’m at the point where we’re gonna be moving.”

Police response and ongoing initiatives

The Portsmouth Police Department acknowledged the recent violence as unsettling but emphasized that it should not eclipse the progress made through community‑police partnerships. In a statement, the department highlighted a 44% reduction in gun‑related incidents compared with the previous year and reiterated its commitment to community policing strategies.

Chief Jenkins also referenced Project IMPACT, a city‑approved initiative aimed at treating gun violence as a public‑health emergency. When News 3 requested an update on the program’s implementation, the city did not provide additional details.

Calls for public assistance

Police are urging anyone with information about the shootings to contact the Portsmouth Crime Line at 1‑888‑LOCK‑U‑UP (1‑888‑562‑5887). The department continues its investigations and encourages residents to report any suspicious activity.

Context for local leaders

The mixed picture of declining overall crime but rising violent incidents underscores the challenges city officials face in balancing statistical trends with community perception. While the modest drop in overall crime offers a positive indicator for the administration’s public‑safety strategies, the recent shootings highlight the need for continued vigilance and resources to address gun violence.

Original reporting: WTKR News 3 (Scripps) – local — read the source article.