safety
Detroit crime hits decades-low as Michigan governor candidates debate how to keep progress going
By Ty Steele at WDIV ClickOnDetroit (NBC) - Local News
· July 17, 2026
· 5 min read
Violent crime has been trending downward in Detroit and across Michigan, but the five major candidates running for governor disagree on what it will take to sustain that progress.Detroit recorded 165 homicides in 2025, the city’s fewest since the mid-1960s. Non-fatal shootings fell 26%, carjackin...
Key takeaway Detroit recorded 165 homicides in 2025, the city’s fewest since the mid-1960s.
Why this matters in The Detroit
The downward trend in violent crime in Detroit is a welcome shift for residents and businesses alike, with the city recording its fewest homicides since the mid-1960s. As governor candidates debate the best approach to sustaining this progress, it's crucial to consider the local implications of their proposals. For instance, Mike Cox's plan to revive the "Joshua Project" could lead to increased nighttime compliance checks in Detroit neighborhoods, potentially impacting community relationships with law enforcement. Meanwhile, John James's focus on restoring confidence in the justice system may resonate with Detroiters who have historically been skeptical of law enforcement. As the city continues to rebuild and attract new investment, the next governor's approach to public safety will be critical in maintaining momentum and ensuring that all Detroiters feel safe and supported. The effectiveness of these proposals will depend on their ability to balance enforcement with community engagement and trust-building.
About this story
Original reporting by WDIV ClickOnDetroit (NBC) - Local News . The Detroit surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WDIV ClickOnDetroit (NBC) - Local News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 17, 2026 ·
Source: WDIV ClickOnDetroit (NBC) - Local News ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Violent crime has been trending downward in Detroit and across Michigan, but the five major candidates running for governor disagree on what it will take to sustain that progress.Detroit recorded 165 homicides in 2025, the city’s fewest since the mid-1960s. Non-fatal shootings fell 26%, carjackin...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 17, 2026 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit (NBC) - Local News and curated for The Detroit readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Ty Steele at WDIV ClickOnDetroit (NBC) - Local News. To learn more about how The Detroit selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Detroit, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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