According to a law enforcement expert, Memphis has seen a significant decline in violent crime, making it a potential model for other cities in the United States. Data from the Memphis Police Department indicates a reduction of more than 40% in violent crime in 2026 compared to the same period in the previous year. This improvement followed the establishment of the Memphis Safe Task Force by President Donald Trump. This initiative includes a coalition of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, alongside the Tennessee National Guard.
The comparison of crime rates between 2026 and 2025 shows substantial decreases:
- Overall violent crime: -40.52%
- Aggravated assault: -28.14%
- Arson: -33.33%
- Burglary: -28.06%
- Homicide: -36%
- Larceny: -39.07%
- Motor vehicle theft: -63.98%
- Robbery: -44.96%
- Sexual assault: -27.43%
“Memphis is absolutely a blueprint for other cities around the nation,” stated Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith, spokesperson for the National Police Association. She emphasized the importance of cooperation between state, local, and federal law enforcement, as well as the engagement of prosecutors and judges.
Once known as one of the most dangerous cities, Memphis has begun to change its reputation. The White House reports that since the task force’s inception, over 7,400 arrests linked to serious crimes such as homicides, sexual offenses, gang violence, and drug trafficking have been made. Authorities have seized 1,219 illegal weapons and found 150 missing children. Federal agents joined the Memphis Safe Task Force in September.
According to a White House press release, the positive results from Memphis demonstrate how strong leadership, firm enforcement, and a no-tolerance stance on crime can lead to real public safety improvements and community transformation.
Local residents are also noticing the change. Bobby Hardin, a resident of Memphis, commented to Action 5 News that the situation has improved significantly compared to two years ago.
For the first time since 2019, Memphis recorded fewer than 200 murders in 2025. Sgt. Smith noted that visible law enforcement presence and consistent arrests can deter crime. She explained that knowing that an arrest can lead to prosecution and detention effectively prevents individuals from returning to criminal activities quickly.
Memphis’ success draws parallels to efforts in Washington, D.C., which has experienced a similar trend. In Washington, violent crime has decreased by 5% in 2026 compared to the previous year, with a notable 53% drop in homicides during the same period. These declines occurred after President Trump also deployed the National Guard to the area in August.
Adam Sabes, a reporter for Fox News Digital, compiled this report.