Atlantic County prosecutor projects further crime declines, cites data-driven strategy; traffic deaths a concern
Atlantic County’s top prosecutor says the county is seeing year-over-year declines in violent crime, gun violence and drug overdose deaths, and his office is projecting further decreases in the most serious crime categories this year after reviewing data back to 2021.
Prosecutor William E. Reynolds, who took over the office in June 2022, said supporting figures published by his office in February show the downward trend. He added that fatal motor vehicle crashes remain a troubling exception, with 29 deaths last year and eight already reported this year.
Reynolds said the office is seriously underfunded and understaffed but has countered by relying on technology, intelligence-driven policing and data analysis to spot trends and determine where to deploy limited resources. He also credited cooperation with local, county, state and federal law enforcement.
“Finally, our strategy is focused and deliberate,” he said, emphasizing targeted investigations and aggressive prosecutions aimed at the small number of individuals who drive the majority of violent crime. He said when the most dangerous offenders are identified and charged—and courts detain them pending trial—the impact on public safety is “immediate and measurable.” The office highlighted several categories it considers significant.
In 2021, the county recorded 191 drug-related deaths, 45 non-fatal shootings and 14 homicides, as well as 511 special victims (abuse) cases and 1,250 indictable-level crimes. For 2025, the county logged 86 drug-related deaths, 14 non-fatal shootings and eight homicides, plus 859 special victims cases and 5,778 indictable-level cases.
Through March 3 of this year, the county has reported 11 drug-related deaths, one non-fatal shooting and no homicides, along with 125 special victims cases and 909 indictable-level cases.
Reynolds said the office will continue concentrating on those responsible for the greatest harm to disrupt cycles of violence, prevent retaliatory crime and create safer neighborhoods, while tracking data and collaborating across agencies to sustain the gains and address ongoing risks on the roads.