Birmingham Police Chief Michael Pickett is celebrating a major reduction in homicides across the city, crediting both law enforcement personnel and the community for the progress.

In a public statement shared on June 19, Pickett reported a 75% decrease in homicides for the month of June compared to the same time last year. As of the 19th, the city had recorded just three homicides this month, compared to 12 by the same date in 2024.

“That’s extraordinary. And it’s not by chance—it’s because of YOU,” Pickett wrote in a Facebook post addressing both Birmingham Police Department staff and city residents. “To the citizens of Birmingham — thank you for your trust, support, and cooperation. Your partnership is helping build a safer, stronger city for all of us.”

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Year-to-date, Birmingham has seen a 49% reduction in homicides, according to the chief. He emphasized that the continued drop in violent crime is a reflection of “hard work, vigilance, and the compassionate way you serve.”

Pickett took time to personally thank all divisions within the department — including Patrol, Community Safety Partnership (CSP), Real Time Crime Center (RTCC), Investigations, Special Operations Bureau, Corrections Officers, and the Hiring & Recruitment Team — as well as every officer “wearing the BPD badge.”

The Chief closed his message with encouragement to keep pushing forward, calling the halfway point of the year “just halftime,” and reminding officers to “stay aggressive, stay committed.”

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.