Albemarle Police Department provides annual crime report

Published 4:58 pm Saturday, August 2, 2025

ALBEMARLE — After a two-month delay due to a change in records management, the Albemarle Police Department has released its 2024 annual report.

APD Police Chief Ryan Manley recently presented the report during the Albemarle City Council meeting on July 21, highlighting a continued decline in crime across the city.

According to data compiled through the National Incident Based Reporting System, overall crime in Albemarle dropped 7.5% in 2024 compared to 2023 and has fallen by 21% over the past five years, making it the fourth consecutive year that number has gone down.

In 2024, the department reported two homicides, 10 robberies, three rapes, one arson and 1,196 total arrests.

The report showed an 18.6% increase in violent crime compared to 2023, which was a 5.3% rise over the five-year average. Burglaries fell 8% from 2023 and 9% below the five-year average, while property crime dropped 12%, larceny declined 15%  and vehicle thefts rose 34.8%.

“In 2024, we did have a slight increase in violent crime, but I do draw your attention to the 12% reduction in property crime,” Manley said. “These results are in large part due to the proactive work of our men and women of the police department and our partners in the community. We have implemented data-driven crime reduction strategies. We are also focusing on patrols and partnerships with our law enforcement agencies.”

Out of 4,987 traffic stops in 2024, the APD issued 318 speeding citations — a 125% increase from the previous year — along with 63 DWI arrests and 34 citations for reckless driving.

“Traffic enforcement continues to be a point of emphasis for the Albemarle Police Department,” Manley said. “We have heard from our community that speeding needs to be addressed, and we’ve taken action. Our commitment to the governor’s Highway Safety Program shines through with our officers’ proactive work.”

The APD currently has 52 sworn officers, meeting the full allotment authorized by the city council, along with seven civilian staff members. It remains as the only law enforcement agency in Stanly County — and one of just 75 in North Carolina — accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.

The department also added a second police canine to its force in 2024, enhancing the APD’s ability to serve the community through both patrol and protection work. The new canine underwent extensive field training before being deployed.

“Chief, I just want to say good job and nice presentation,” Councilmember Bill Aldridge said. “Thank you for the level of professionalism that you’ve brought to the agency, and keep up the good work.”