WPD chief: Core downtown area ‘never safer than it is now’ following 2018

WILMINGTON, NC(WWAY) — Wilmington police reported historically low crime numbers out for 2018 before Wilmington city leaders Tuesday night.

Police Chief Ralph Evangelous said many factors have worked to get that result.

“We’re really proud of the residents working with us,” said Evangelous.

The chief reports that violent crimes and thefts dropped 12 percent last year compared to 2017.

“Between 2002 and 2018 a 50% reduction in serious crime,” said the chief.

Police saw a more than 50% drop in homicides as well down from 19 in 2017 to 9.

“The [Wilmington] central business district has never been safer than it is now,” said Evangelous.

Police reported a 66% drop in crime in the central business district since 2002.

The only increase that was recorded by police in relation to violent crimes was aggravated assaults. The chief said that is in relation to gang retaliation.