NORFOLK — Reports of violent crimes like rapes, homicides and assaults reached one of the lowest points in decades for 2025, Norfolk Police Chief Mark Talbot told City Council members Tuesday. Talbot said reports of violent crime declined by 11%, from 859 reported crimes in 2024 to 761 in 2025. Homicides were also down. Police reported 26 homicides in 2025, down 30% from 37 in 2024. Nonfatal shootings dropped 24% from 74 to 56. “So, certainly doesn’t represent a victory, but it does represent progress,” Talbot said. Norfolk Chief of Police Mark Talbot speaks during a town hall meeting in Norfolk on July 31, 2023. (Billy Schuerman / The Virginian-Pilot) Property crime —...
