Norfolk Crime Trends: Insights Into the City’s Safest and Most Dangerous Areas

As Norfolk residents and newcomers, understanding the city’s safety landscape is vital. In this detailed analysis, we explore crime statistics, trends, and significant incidents that shaped Norfolk in 2024. With this knowledge, you can make informed decisions about where to live, work, and play in the city.

• Total Homicides in 2024: 26, down from 42 in 2023 (a 38% decrease).
• Violent Crime Trends: Non-fatal shootings dropped by 50% compared to 2023.
• Property Crimes: Auto thefts surged in Ocean View, while Downtown Norfolk saw the highest burglary rates.
• Drug-Related Crimes: Areas like Berkley and Norview remained hotspots for arrests.
• Traffic Crimes: Ghent recorded the most DUIs, influenced by its nightlife, while the Military Highway Corridor remained a focal point for reckless driving.

• Worst Areas: St. Paul’s Boulevard, Olde Huntersville, and Park Place.
• Details: St. Paul’s Boulevard had an uptick in assaults near nightlife venues, while Olde Huntersville led in homicides linked to gang-related activity.

• Worst Areas: Ocean View and Downtown Norfolk.
• Details: Ocean View experienced a rise in auto thefts near beach parking lots. Downtown Norfolk businesses were heavily impacted by burglaries.

• Worst Areas: Berkley and Norview.
• Details: Drug trafficking and possession arrests were concentrated around transit hubs and major roadways in these neighborhoods.

• Worst Areas: Ghent and Military Highway Corridor.
• Details: Ghent’s nightlife led to high DUI rates, while Military Highway saw increased reckless driving incidents.

Kimball Terrace Shooting: On September 3, 2024, a man was tragically shot and killed in the 3200 block of Kimball Terrace. The incident occurred in broad daylight, sparking concern among residents about rising violence in the area. The case remains under investigation, with police urging witnesses to come forward.

Lindenwood Avenue Convenience Store Tragedy: An 84-year-old store owner, James Carter, lost his life during a fatal shooting outside his store on Lindenwood Avenue. The shooting was reportedly triggered by a disturbance involving multiple individuals. After months of investigation, a suspect was arrested and is awaiting trial, scheduled for March 2025. This incident highlighted the vulnerability of small business owners in high-crime areas.

Triple Shooting Near Norfolk State University: On November 29, three individuals were shot near Corprew Avenue, close to Norfolk State University. A woman sustained life-threatening injuries, while two men were hospitalized but expected to recover. This incident raised questions about campus safety and led to increased police patrols in the area.

ODU Campus Robbery: In a shocking incident on September 3, an armed robbery took place at Scotland House dormitory on Old Dominion University’s campus. University police quickly responded, arresting one suspect, while two others fled the scene. One additional arrest was made weeks later, but the third suspect remains at large. This event prompted heightened security measures on campus.

Downtown Business Heists: A string of armed robberies targeted small businesses in Downtown Norfolk during late 2024. These incidents, often occurring after business hours, involved masked assailants armed with firearms. In response, law enforcement increased nighttime patrols and collaborated with business owners to enhance security systems.

• What Improved:
  
  • Homicides and violent crimes decreased significantly, thanks to community-policing initiatives and the Real Time Crime Center’s technological advancements.
  • Non-fatal shootings dropped by 50% year-over-year.
• What Worsened:
  
  • Property crimes, particularly auto thefts, surged in areas like Ocean View.

• Ghent: Known for its tree-lined streets and historic homes, Ghent offers more than charm—it’s one of the safest areas in Norfolk. Active community watch programs and regular police patrols keep crime to a minimum. It’s a popular spot for families and professionals alike.
• Larchmont: A quiet, family-friendly neighborhood near schools and parks, Larchmont boasts low crime rates and a strong sense of community. Residents often collaborate on safety initiatives, making it a great place to call home.
• Riverview: Nestled by the Norfolk Zoo, Riverview is small but mighty when it comes to safety. The tight-knit community and frequent patrols make this area one of Norfolk’s hidden gems.
• East Beach: A newer, upscale neighborhood with private security measures and active homeowner associations. It’s quickly becoming a sought-after location for its peace of mind and beautiful waterfront views.

• Olde Huntersville: This area struggles with gang-related activity and violent crimes. Despite ongoing community efforts, it remains one of Norfolk’s higher-risk neighborhoods.
• Berkley: Drug-related incidents and violent crimes continue to affect Berkley. However, local outreach programs are working hard to turn things around.
• St. Paul’s Boulevard: A nightlife hotspot, St. Paul’s sees its share of assaults and robberies, especially late at night. The city is investing in better lighting and security to reduce incidents here.
• Ocean View: Known for its beaches, Ocean View also has a darker side. Car thefts and vandalism are frequent, particularly in public parking areas.
• Norview: Its location near major highways makes Norview a hotspot for drug activity and related crimes. Increased law enforcement presence aims to tackle these issues.