New Jersey experienced notable reductions in gun violence and auto theft in 2024, according to data released by the Governor’s Office and the New Jersey State Police (NJSP).
In 2024, 778 individuals were reported as victims of gun violence, reflecting a 16% decrease from 2023, when 924 victims were recorded. The number of fatalities resulting from shootings also declined by 20%, with 152 deaths reported in 2024. This marks the second consecutive year of record-low shooting incidents in the state.
Auto thefts, often linked to violent crime, fell by 11% statewide. A total of 14,755 vehicles were reported stolen in 2024, down from 16,694 in 2023, continuing a downward trend in vehicle thefts over the past three years.
The reductions follow a coordinated effort by law enforcement agencies across the state, driven by intelligence-led policing and increased use of technology. The NJSP’s Regional Operations Intelligence Center attributed the improvements to targeted initiatives such as the Gun Violence Reduction Task Force (GVRTF), which facilitates collaboration among law enforcement agencies at the local, state, and federal levels.
The GVRTF’s approach focuses on identifying and disrupting key drivers of violence, supported by community engagement and advanced data analysis. This multi-agency effort aims to allocate resources strategically and respond more effectively to emerging threats.
In addition to addressing gun violence, the state has taken steps to combat auto theft through the Auto Theft Task Force (ATTF). The task force has prioritized long-term investigations into organized car theft operations while recovering millions of dollars’ worth of stolen vehicles. New legislation enacted in July 2023 increased penalties for repeat offenders and large-scale theft networks, contributing to the overall reduction in vehicle-related crime.
Efforts to enhance public safety have expanded beyond traditional law enforcement. The Alternative Responses to Reduce Instances of Violence and Escalation (ARRIVE) Together program has grown to cover all 21 counties, supporting law enforcement responses with mental health professionals. Since its inception in 2021, the program has handled approximately 6,000 cases.
The Community-Based Violence Intervention (CBVI) program, overseen by the Division of Violence Intervention and Victim Assistance, continues to provide outreach and intervention in high-risk areas. Over the first three quarters of 2024, CBVI programs engaged more than 16,000 community members through school initiatives, community events, and one-on-one interventions.
New Jersey’s approach to public safety, which includes stricter gun laws and legal actions against firearm manufacturers, remains a key component of ongoing efforts to reduce crime. The Statewide Affirmative Firearms Enforcement (SAFE) Office continues to pursue civil litigation against gunmakers whose products contribute to illegal activity, reinforcing the state’s commitment to reducing gun violence.
To date, the state has invested more than $55 million in CBVI initiatives and over $32 million in the ARRIVE Together program, contributing to the downward trend in violent crime and auto theft across New Jersey.