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Major Crimes Decline Across Santa Monica
City data shows significant drops in violent offenses and burglary last year.
Apr. 15, 2026 at 6:58pm
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Targeted enforcement and increased staffing contribute to a safer Santa Monica.Santa Monica TodayThe City of Santa Monica has released detailed public safety data showing substantial improvements across all major crime categories in 2025. Violent offenses and burglary declined 12.5% last year, with 599 fewer crimes reported compared to 2024. Total calls for service also decreased 3.1%, while total arrests increased 22.9%. The Santa Monica Police Department attributes the gains to a shift toward a more proactive, prevention-focused policing model and reaching full sworn staffing for the first time in over 20 years.
Why it matters
Maintaining public safety is a top priority for any city, and these results demonstrate that Santa Monica's new policing strategies and staffing levels are having a measurable impact on reducing major crimes. The data suggests the city's residents and businesses are benefiting from a safer environment.
The details
According to the city data, violent offenses and burglary declined 12.5% last year, with 599 fewer crimes reported in 2025 compared to 2024. Additionally, total calls for service decreased 3.1%, while total arrests increased 22.9%. Traffic citations were up a whopping 102%. The police department also saw a significant increase in officer-initiated activity, rising from around 40% in 2024 to 51-53% during the first quarter of 2026.
- The data covers the 2025 calendar year, with comparisons to 2024.
- The police department reached full sworn staffing for the first time in over 20 years.
The players
Darrick Jacob
The Police Chief of the Santa Monica Police Department who has shifted the department toward a more proactive, prevention-focused policing model.
Santa Monica Police Department
The local law enforcement agency that has implemented new strategies to reduce major crimes in the city.
What they’re saying
“All of the data reflects a measurable shift from reactive response to proactive enforcement in the City.”
— Santa Monica
The takeaway
Santa Monica's new policing approach and staffing improvements have led to significant declines in major crimes, suggesting the city's residents and businesses are benefiting from a safer environment. The data highlights the potential impact of proactive, prevention-focused law enforcement strategies when implemented effectively.
