Macon Violence Prevention Program Reports 45% Drop in Homicides
Mayor Lester Miller, alongside the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, and the District Attorney’s Office, presented the annual Macon Violence Prevention (MVP) progress report on Tuesday, March 4. The presentation outlined the program’s impact since its launch in 2021, highlighting reductions in violent crime.
Mayor Miller recalled the program’s beginnings, emphasizing community involvement in tackling crime. “Nearly four years ago, hundreds of us stood in Rosa Parks Square to affirm in one voice that we must work together to fight back against the plague of violent crime,” Miller said.
MVP Coordinator Jeremy Grissom reported that the program has achieved significant early results. Data presented at the meeting showed:
- A 45% drop in homicides from 2022 to 2024, decreasing from 71 to 39.
- An 87% decrease in homicides among teenagers, from 15 in 2022 to 2 in 2024.
- Growth in the District Attorney’s R.I.S.E. program graduates, from 26 to 122.
- A reduction in recorded incidents (26.6%) and gunfire (28.5%) detected by the Sheriff’s ShotSpotter system.
Sheriff David Davis and District Attorney Anita Howard credited the success to enhanced technology, including the Verkada and Flock Camera systems, which have aided investigations and convictions.
Community-based initiatives were also highlighted. In 2023, the Community Foundation of Central Georgia awarded $855,500 in MVP grants to 25 organizations. Over three years, $2.5 million has been distributed to 40 organizations focusing on youth activities, mental health, and parental support.
“We recognize that this is a long-term effort,” said Kathryn Dennis, President of CFCGA. “The challenges of violent crime were not created overnight, and they will not be solved overnight.”
Officials emphasized continued collaboration between law enforcement, local organizations, and residents to sustain progress in making Macon-Bibb County safer.
