Berks County experienced a significant decline in homicides during 2024, according to District Attorney John T. Adams. The county recorded 12 homicides last year, a notable reduction compared to previous years. Of those, one was ruled justified, and another—occurring on December 21—is still under investigation.
The City of Reading accounted for eight of the 12 homicides in 2024, marking a considerable decrease from previous years. Five of these cases have already been solved.
District Attorney Adams attributed the decline to collaborative efforts between law enforcement and specialized task forces, including the City of Reading’s Neighborhood Gun Violence Detail, the Berks County District Attorney’s Office Gun Crime Unit, and Berks County Probation and Parole’s Firearms Suppression Unit. Two of these units are supported by grants from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD).
“We welcome this news and believe it reflects the impact of these task forces and our ongoing commitment to combating gun violence,” Adams stated. “Fighting gun violence remains a priority, and the results demonstrate that these efforts are making a meaningful difference in our community.”
Additional support comes from a long-standing collaborative initiative known as “Nightlight.” This program involves county detectives, state and county parole officers, deputy sheriffs, and city and county police conducting unannounced visits, bar checks, and weapons seizures. Funded by the county, the initiative has successfully removed weapons and drugs from the streets.
“We will continue these collaborative efforts with all law enforcement in the county to ensure the safety of our community,” Adams said.
Homicide statistics reveal a consistent drop in homicides in the county and the City of Reading:
- 2021: 19 homicides (12 in Reading; 2 ruled justified)
- 2022: 23 homicides (17 in Reading)
- 2023: 20 homicides (15 in Reading; 1 justified officer-involved shooting)
The District Attorney’s Office resolved 22 homicide cases in 2024 through pleas or trials, with all trials resulting in guilty verdicts.
“I am very pleased that we continue to prosecute violent offenders to the fullest extent of the law,” Adams noted. “These successes are a testament to the tireless investigative work of law enforcement in Berks County.”
As investigations continue and task forces remain active, Adams reaffirmed the county’s commitment to reducing violent crime and ensuring justice for victims.
