There was a decrease in crime in Asbury Park during 2024 and for the first time in 25 years there was not a single homicide in the city.
Most of the crime categories, including robbery, aggravated assault and auto theft, saw a decrease except for thefts and arrests. The increase in thefts was due largely in part to a significant increase in shoplifting, police said.
Also in 2024, police said 34 firearms were recovered.
Police Chief Chief David Kelso retired effective Jan. 1. He had been on extended leave from July 1 to Dec. 31. During Kelso’s absence, Deputy Chief Guy Thompson was named and has served as the officer in charge of the department.
During this time, Thompson has overseen and implemented changes in the department. A number of officers were promoted and some changes made including, expanding programs for the city’s youth and adults through the Police Athletic League. Programs which were initiated or continued were boxing, ,weightlifting,strength training and leadership and life skills.
There was also a summer camp program consisting of various activities, sports, games and field trips. Most of these programs are geared towards children, however there are also adult programs and activities.
In addition, a behavioral health specialist was on hand to respond to certain emergency calls alongside police in addition to conducting weekly outreach with Social Services to homeless individuals.
Since July, with the backing of Mayor John Moor and City Council, Thompson has been able to promote several officers to various ranks within the department, which has significantly improved morale, police said, as these spots had been vacant for some time.
In an effort to spread holiday cheer and promote/improve community relations, Thompson implemented a program where officers, during traffic stops for minor infractions, would issue motorists a verbal warning along with a $20 Amazon gift card to assist them during the holidays.
Police said the dedication and teamwork between law enforcement agencies is unprecedented and has resulted in reducing violent crimes in the city and is helping to rid the streets of violent offenders. The agencies involved are the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, New Jersey State Police, The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Marshals, FBI as well as local law enforcement.
According to police statistics there were 2 robberies with a firearm in 2024 and four in 2023; 25 robberies with physical force in 2024 and 32 in 2023; shootings/shots confirmed 9 in 2024 and 18 in 2023 and aggravated assault with a firearm 8 in 2024 and 10 in 2023.
