(SACRAMENTO, CA) — Sacramento County closed out 2025 with a remarkable milestone: just 18 homicides—the lowest tally in more than 50 years. Sheriff Jim Cooper announced the historic figure on social media, noting the dramatic contrast between then and now. In 1970, the county’s population hovered around 631,000; today, it tops 1.6 million. Yet, despite explosive growth and the complexities of urban life, the homicide rate has plunged to record lows, defying decades of crime trends.
(Photo from Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper's X social media post.)
Sheriff Cooper credited the decline to proactive policing, strong patrol operations, and a dedicated Gang Unit, which seized 382 firearms in 2025. These strategies, he said, emphasize accountability, visibility, and consequences for those who choose crime.
“This approach isn’t new—it’s time-tested and effective,” Cooper wrote on his X platform. “The results speak for themselves: fewer shootings, fewer victims, safer neighborhoods.”
A big part of Sacramento County’s success, Sheriff Jim Cooper emphasized, comes from the Gang Unit—one of the last remaining standalone units in California. While such teams can be “politically unpopular,” Cooper underscored that gang violence is anything but theoretical for the neighborhoods living with its impact.
“Dedicated gang enforcement lets us zero in on the small group driving a disproportionate share of violent crime—using intelligence, experience, and precision,” Cooper said.
The results speak loudly: in 2025 alone, the Gang Unit seized 382 firearms through targeted operations, intelligence-led investigations, and relentless pressure on violent offenders. Cooper acknowledged that keeping a standalone gang unit isn’t easy, but vowed to maintain its strength because, as he put it, “the numbers don’t lie.”
“When this work is paired with proactive patrol operations, the outcome is clear: fewer shootings, fewer victims, and safer neighborhoods. That is not theory. That is what the numbers show,” Cooper said.
The announcement sparked additional discussion among Sacramento residents on NextDoor, many of whom shared their thoughts on what’s driving the trend and what still needs improvement.
(Photo of comments by Sarah Denos, NextDoor post.)
“Exciting news!” said Ryan O. of Newton Booth. “I think reaching out to troubled youth and having activities for them is so important in keeping violence low. Glad to see we are moving in the right direction!”
Others pointed to technology and enforcement as key factors. John Brightenstine of Butterfield-Riviera East commented: “Medical advancements have saved lives that would have been fatalities decades ago. Plus, ICE presence, facial recognition, DNA, cameras everywhere, and cell phone tracking have all helped suppress criminal activity. Good job!”
Not everyone agreed that policing deserves all the credit. Maria M. of Old West Sacramento wrote: “Of course they credit themselves. I don’t think police can really prevent many homicides or crimes generally.”
That prompted a response from Joy St. John of Woodbine, who asked: “Maria, ok, so to what do you attribute the downturn?”
Some residents raised broader questions about demographics. Jon Lippsmeyer of Arcade Village noted: “Statistics can be misleading. The population is older now, and older folks commit less crime. That may account for part of the decline.”
Others focused on local concerns. Rick Anderson of Robla said: “Please get a handle on street racing. Our neighborhood has issues with drug activity and dumping. And how many homicides are family-related? I’ve seen multiple fatalities due to parents unable to cope—it’s very sad.”
While many praised the Sheriff’s efforts, some questioned resources. Lee Miller of Vineyard Point wrote: “We have only one patrol car for all of South County. The Sheriff’s Department has open positions but hasn’t filled them. Elk Grove and Sacramento keep hiring—why can’t the Sheriff’s Department?”
Despite differing opinions, most agreed that the drop in homicides is significant. Charmaine Bryant of West Montclaire expressed surprise: “I canNOT believe it was only 18. Seems like there’s a murder on the news almost every day.”
Others, like Seaver Klug of Greater Lawrence Park, kept it simple: “Cooper seems to be doing a good job.”
The conversation reflects both optimism and ongoing concerns. While Sacramento County celebrates a historic low in homicides, residents continue to call for more patrols, youth programs, and community engagement to keep neighborhoods safe.
Submit Sacramento story tips and ideas to Sarah Denos at sarahkdenos@gmail.com
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