Early Tuesday morning, civic and business leaders filled the Georgia World Congress Center for the 21st Annual Crime Is Toast Breakfast—a tradition that celebrates the brave men and women of the Atlanta Police Department. The event, hosted by the Atlanta Police Foundation, honored officers for exceptional service and highlighted the city’s continued focus on building a safer, stronger Atlanta.
Mayor Andre Dickens joined Police Chief Darin Schierbaum, foundation leaders, and community partners to recognize the collective progress being made to reduce crime and strengthen neighborhoods.
Why It Matters
Mayor Dickens used the moment to reaffirm one of his administration’s core goals—making Atlanta the safest large city in America by 2028. Through the Safest City Campaign, the City, Atlanta Police Foundation, and business leaders are working hand in hand to invest in prevention, innovation, and opportunity.
“This is our group project,” said Mayor Dickens. “Together, we’re rebuilding the Atlanta Police Department, supporting our officers, and making sure every resident, in every ZIP code, feels safe where they live, work, and play.”
By the Numbers
Atlanta’s progress in public safety continues to show real results:
- 44% drop in homicides since 2022
- 30% decline in shootings year over year
- 13,000 guns taken off city streets
- Nearly 900 new officers hired since 2022—the highest staffing in five years
- 40+ affordable homes built for officers in neighborhoods they serve
- 2,000 youth engaged through At-Promise Centers, with a fourth center opening soon
Each number reflects more than a statistic—it represents lives saved, families protected, and communities restored.
Honoring Service and Sacrifice
Awards recognized those who go above and beyond the call of duty, including Officer of the Year Miroslav Petkov and Legacy Champion Honoree Robin Loudermilk, whose leadership has strengthened the bond between Atlanta’s business community and public safety agencies.
The program also paid tribute to Officer David Rose of the DeKalb County Police Department, who lost his life in the line of duty earlier this year. His bravery and service were honored by fellow officers, civic leaders, and his family. The Atlanta Track Club presented a special check for $40,000, raised during the annual Atlanta’s Finest 5K, to support the Rose family.
What’s Next
As Mayor Dickens looks toward his second term, public safety remains central to his administration’s vision for “One Safe City.” The next phase includes:
- Fully staffing APD by 2027
- Expanding youth and community-based crime prevention programs
- Investing in officer housing, training, and wellness
- Using data and technology to predict and prevent crime
“By the time I complete my second term,” Mayor Dickens said, “I want visitors landing at Hartsfield-Jackson to see a sign that says: Welcome to the Safest Large City in America. That’s not marketing—that’s a promise.”
