Charlotte, North Carolina, October 4, 2025
News Summary
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Fraternal Order of Police has formally requested federal law enforcement assistance to address a surge in violence and a staffing shortfall within the CMPD. The appeal highlights a concerning increase in homicides and the need for additional resources to ensure public safety. City officials have expressed opposition to deploying the National Guard, stating it may not be necessary. Community leaders remain divided on the best approach to combatting the escalating crime crisis.
Charlotte, North Carolina – The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), Lodge #9, has submitted a formal request for federal law enforcement support, advocating for the deployment of the National Guard in response to an escalated violence crisis and a significant staffing shortfall affecting the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD). This appeal comes as city leadership has been criticized for their inadequate response to the staffing and violence challenges in the area.
In a letter dated October 2, 2025, FOP Lodge #9 President Daniel C. Redford outlined the pressing concerns regarding the rise in violent crime. The letter highlighted that since the murder of Iryna Zarutska on August 22, 2025, there have been 15 homicides in Charlotte-Metrolina, which includes a recent double homicide in the Freedom area and the tragic shooting death of a 16-year-old near Midtown. Furthermore, uptown Charlotte has experienced an alarming year-to-date increase of nearly 200% in homicides compared to the previous year.
The correspondence also brought attention to a disturbing trend of serious injuries resulting from multiple shootings, underscoring a CMPD officer nearly being killed while responding to a domestic dispute on July 6. In 2025 alone, two murders have occurred on CATS property, where a 21-year-old was fatally stabbed and a 31-year-old was shot at the Charlotte Transportation Center. Collectively, nearly 25 homicides have been documented since a CMPD mid-year report from July, which had suggested a decline in violent crime previously.
Redford accused city leadership of downplaying the staffing crisis and taking insufficient action to tackle what he referred to as an unsustainable situation that compromises both officer and public safety. The FOP emphasized its commitment to advocating for the safety of all residents in Charlotte, reflecting on results from a 2021 National Fraternal Order of Police survey, which indicated that nearly 6,000 officers considered staffing shortages as a greater source of stress than the risks associated with fatal incidents in the line of duty.
In contrast to the FOP’s request, several city officials, including State Senator Malcolm Graham and Councilmember LaWana Mayfield, have rejected the proposal to deploy the National Guard, arguing it is unnecessary and potentially detrimental to the community. Congresswoman Alma S. Adams echoed this sentiment, asserting that deploying the National Guard would not be justified and reaffirming her confidence in local leadership’s ongoing efforts to bolster public safety.
The FOP’s request for National Guard deployment has sparked significant dialogue among city officials, though no official plans for such assistance have been confirmed as of yet.
Key Statistics on Homicides in Charlotte
- 15 homicides reported since August 22, 2025.
- 200% increase in homicides in uptown Charlotte compared to 2024.
- 25 total homicides reported since the CMPD’s mid-year report in July.
Community Reactions
The discussions surrounding the FOP’s request highlight a community divided on how best to ensure safety amid rising violence. Some leaders believe that involvement from the National Guard could escalate tensions and instill fear, rather than provide security.
Background on CMPD Staffing Crisis
The staffing crisis within CMPD has raised alarm after a significant survey indicated the stressful environment faced by officers. The FOP intends to continue its advocacy until Charlotte citizens can feel assured of their safety, both in public spaces and at home.
Conclusion
The urgent call for federal assistance by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg FOP underscores the critical challenge facing local law enforcement as it grapples with rising violence and staffing shortages. The ongoing dialogue among city officials reflects a complex interplay of community needs and the appropriate measures necessary to ensure public safety.
FAQ
What is the request made by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Fraternal Order of Police?
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), Lodge #9, has formally requested federal law enforcement assistance, including the deployment of the National Guard, due to rising violence and a staffing crisis impacting the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD.
How many homicides have been recorded in Charlotte since August 22, 2025?
The FOP reported 15 homicides since the August 22 killing of Iryna Zarutska, including a double homicide in the Freedom area and the shooting death of a 16-year-old near Midtown.
What has been the increase in homicides in uptown Charlotte compared to 2024?
Uptown Charlotte has seen a nearly 200% increase in homicides year-to-date compared to 2024.
What do city officials think about the deployment of the National Guard?
Several city leaders, including State Senator Malcolm Graham and Councilmember LaWana Mayfield, opposed the idea of deploying the National Guard, stating it is unnecessary and potentially harmful to the community.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Homicides Since August 22, 2025 | 15 reported, including a double homicide and the death of a 16-year-old. |
| Uptown Homicide Increase | Nearly 200% increase year-to-date compared to 2024. |
| Responses to FOP Request | Opposition from local leaders, asserting the National Guard deployment is unnecessary. |
| Overall Homicide Count in 2025 | Approximately 25 homicides since the mid-year CMPD report in July. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charlotte Leaders Reject National Guard Deployment Amid Crime Surge
Congressional Hearing in Charlotte Addresses Crime and Safety
Charlotte Leaders Reject National Guard Assistance Amid Rising Crime
Charlie Kirk’s Assassination Sparks Nationwide Rallies
Shooting Incident Shakes Uptown Charlotte During Lunch Hour
DaBaby Releases Controversial Music Video Tribute
Investigation Launched After Stabbing Death on CATS Transit System
Kilmar Ábrego García’s Deportation Dilemma to Eswatini
Tragic Shooting Claims the Life of an 11-Year-Old Boy
Recent Shooting Incidents Rock Charlotte Neighborhood
Additional Resources
- WSOC-TV: Police Union Urges Leaders to Deploy National Guard
- WXII12: Charlotte Federal Assistance and National Guard Deployment
- WBTV: Police Union Wants National Guard Sent to Charlotte
- Google Search: Charlotte Mecklenburg Police
- Spectrum Local News: Community Leader Denouncing Union’s Calls for Federal Deployment
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlotte North Carolina
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
