MADISON — Madison officials reported substantial decreases in major crimes during a public safety briefing Monday, with burglaries down 43% and stolen vehicle thefts dropping 52% compared to the three-year average.

Chief Patterson announced the crime reduction statistics during the briefing, which highlighted the city's data-driven approach to public safety. Aggravated assaults decreased 3% while homicides declined 33% in 2025.

"These successes are attributed to data-informed decision-making and community collaboration," Patterson said during the briefing.

The CARES program, launched in 2021, has emerged as a key component of Madison's public safety strategy. The program responds to non-violent behavioral health emergencies using community paramedics and mental health crisis workers ins

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