FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Durham, NC (Sunday, August 9, 2026) -- Durham County Sheriff Clarence F. Birkhead released crime statistics covering the first six (6) months of the current calendar year 2026. Overall, DCSO registered a crime decrease of just over 8 percent (8.7%) regarding the “Top 8 Crimes” when comparing January through June 2026 (281) versus the same period in 2025 (308).
This specific category includes:
- Murder
- Sex Offenses
- Robbery
- Aggravated Assault
- Burglary/Breaking & Entering
- Larceny (includes break-ins to motor vehicles)
- Motor Vehicle Theft
- Arson
Larceny (including Motor Vehicle Break-ins): after experiencing a recent spike earlier this year, DCSO has also seen a 12% decrease in this specific crime category (142 in 2026 vs. 163 last year). In April & May 2026 alone, more than half (72) of these crimes occurred. In early May, DCSO announced results of an arrest and ongoing investigation primarily focused in and around the Research Triangle Park section of Durham County -
At the time, Sheriff Birkhead said: “this most recent arrest was a direct result of the seamless collaboration between the Durham County Sheriff’s Office and our fellow law enforcement partners in Cary, Raleigh, and throughout Wake County. By sharing intelligence and resources, we are sending a clear message that those who target our communities will be held accountable, no matter where they attempt to hide.
“We applaud the hard work of DCSO deputies patrolling 24/7 and specialized crime units who are working together with our community to reduce overall crime,” Sheriff Birkhead said. “We remind the public to report any suspicious activity - if you ‘see something, say something’ - by calling 911 immediately or 919-560-0900.”
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