PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland recorded one the steepest drops in violent crime during the first half of 2025 compared to 67 other major U.S. cities.

Compared to January through June 2024, homicides fell from 35 incidents to 17 incidents — a reduction of 51% — representing the largest homicide decrease of any major city based on new data from the Major Cities Chiefs Association , which looked at violent crime reported in metro areas across the country.

During this time frame, overall violent crime in Portland fell by 17% , Portland police said. Aggravated assaults dropped by 18%, robberies declined by 10%, and sexual assault reports were down 12%.

According to city leaders, this drop can be attributed to "sustained" and "proactive" city strategies, involving public safety programs, like

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