Athens crime, accidents down in 2022

The Athens-Clarke County Police Department says crime and accidents were down in the Classic City for the calendar year just ended.

The city saw a one percent total crime reduction rate year to year over 2021.

“Included in the overall crime reduction are significant reductions in notable crime categories, including a 12.9% reduction in total crimes against persons, a 32.8% reduction in robbery, and a 10.5% reduction in residential burglary,” says ACCPD Lt. Shaun Barnett.

“Additionally, ACCPD increased our traffic enforcement efforts in calendar year 2022, resulting in a reduction in both total vehicle crashes and fatal vehicle crashes.”

ACCPD conducted over 2,000 more traffic stops in 2022 than in 2021 and saw and an 11.3% reduction in total vehicle crashes. Fatal crashes fell by more than half, from 24 to 10.

“These numbers are an illustration of ACCPD’s commitment to the safety and security of our community,” says Barnett. He says the police department will continue working to maintain positive community relations and implementing police strategies that further reduce crime in Athens-Clarke County.