West Tennessee, January 7, 2026
In a groundbreaking achievement, Haywood, Crockett, and Gibson counties in West Tennessee reported no homicides in a year for the first time in over 20 years. This success underscores the importance of community involvement and collaboration with law enforcement. District Attorney Frederick H. Agee highlighted the role of residents and the judicial system in fostering public safety. Despite achievements in these counties, other areas like Memphis face rising homicide rates, emphasizing the need for comprehensive crime reduction strategies across the state.
Memphis, Tennessee
West Tennessee Celebrates Historic Year Without Homicides
Three West Tennessee counties—Haywood, Crockett, and Gibson—reported no homicides in 2025, marking the first time in at least 20 years that the 28th Judicial District experienced a year without a reported murder. This milestone highlights the effectiveness of community engagement and law enforcement collaboration in achieving public safety.
District Attorney General Frederick H. Agee celebrated this success on January 6, 2026, underscoring the importance of active community involvement. Agee noted that the concerted efforts of residents, law enforcement, and the judicial system paved the way for this remarkable achievement. Additionally, he pointed out the critical role of judges in ensuring appropriate bonds for violent offenders and adherence to probation mandates.
The Role of Community and Law Enforcement
Haywood County Sheriff Billy Garrett Jr. expressed appreciation for the community’s support, indicating that the absence of murder reflects the caring spirit of the residents. The collaborative approach to crime reduction emphasizes how a united front among community members and law enforcement can lead to significant improvements in public safety.
Overview of the 28th Judicial District
The 28th Judicial District encompasses approximately 1,403 square miles across the three counties, with a combined population of about 81,000. The significance of achieving a year without homicide in such a sizeable district cannot be overstated. This accomplishment stands as a beacon of hope and a model for potential strategies aimed at crime reduction elsewhere.
Impact of Drug Enforcement Efforts
In conjunction with the historic homicides-free year, the West Tennessee Violent Crime and Drug Task Force reported unprecedented drug seizures in 2025, including large amounts of methamphetamine, cocaine, and promethazine. The success of law enforcement in combating drug-related crimes contributes to the overall decline in violent crime in the district, suggesting that focused efforts in one area can have ripple effects on public safety.
Context of Statewide Crime Trends
While the achievement in Haywood, Crockett, and Gibson counties is commendable, it is essential to recognize the challenges that other regions in Tennessee face concerning violent crime. For instance, Memphis saw an increase in homicides from 269 in 2023 to 348 in 2024. Moreover, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s 2023 Crime in Tennessee report highlighted a statewide increase of 7.5% in murder rates. Such contrasting statistics strengthen the call for comprehensive approaches to effectively address and mitigate violent crime across various Tennessee communities.
Lessons Learned from the 28th Judicial District
The 28th Judicial District’s success serves as a compelling example of how community engagement and dedicated law enforcement can effectively work to enhance public safety. This achievement encourages a broader conversation about the role of civic participation and smart, targeted policing strategies in crime reduction efforts throughout Tennessee.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the historic achievement of the 28th Judicial District in having no reported homicides in 2025 underscores the potential for progress when communities come together to support law enforcement. This case illustrates that with collaboration, resilience, and determination, even the most challenging issues, like violent crime, can be addressed effectively. The ongoing need for such cooperative efforts across Tennessee’s varied landscapes remains crucial, and residents are encouraged to support local initiatives that enhance safety and economic growth in their communities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What counties are part of the 28th Judicial District in Tennessee?
The 28th Judicial District comprises Haywood, Crockett, and Gibson counties.
How large is the 28th Judicial District?
The district covers approximately 1,403 square miles.
What is the combined population of these counties?
The combined population of Haywood, Crockett, and Gibson counties is about 81,000.
When was the last time the 28th Judicial District had no reported murders?
2025 marked the first time in at least 20 years that the district experienced a year without a reported murder.
What factors contributed to the reduction in homicides in these counties?
Community involvement, effective law enforcement, and a fair judicial system played significant roles in reducing homicides in the 28th Judicial District.
How does this achievement compare to other areas in Tennessee?
While the 28th Judicial District reported no homicides in 2025, other areas in Tennessee, such as Memphis, experienced increases in homicides during the same period, highlighting the need for continued efforts to address violent crime statewide.
Key Features of the 28th Judicial District’s Achievement
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Counties Involved | Haywood, Crockett, and Gibson |
| District Size | 1,403 square miles |
| Combined Population | Approximately 81,000 |
| Years Without Reported Murders | First time in at least 20 years |
| Contributing Factors | Community involvement, effective law enforcement, fair judicial system |
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