Providence Police Report Significant Drop in Violent Crime as New Gun Law Legislation Advances
Providence, RI – A significant decline in violent crime in Providence, which has decreased by 10% compared to the previous year, coincides with the impending vote by the House Judiciary Committee on a new gun law. The legislative action aims to revise the definition of a “crime gun,” seeking to enhance the tracing of guns involved in criminal activity.
The House Judiciary Committee is scheduled to convene tonight at 5 p.m. to vote on a proposed bill that mandates law enforcement officers to submit seized firearms, or two cartridge cases or shell casings, to the state crime lab or the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for testing and tracing. Currently, a firearm can be classified as a “crime gun” based solely on suspicion, without the requirement of ballistic testing.
According to reports from Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez, the city has experienced the lowest levels of violent crime since 1990, indicating that concentrated efforts in law enforcement and community partnerships are yielding positive results. In the first few months of 2024, the number of assaults, robberies, and shooting victims has decreased significantly, contributing to the overall drop in crime.
Statistics Highlight Decline in Violent Crime
This year, Providence police have recorded a total of 325 gun seizures, the highest number since 2006. Specifically, the instances of firearms used in aggravated assaults have decreased from approximately 100 in 2023 to 69 in 2024. Aggravated assault reports have totaled 434 in 2024, reflecting a 9% decline compared to the previous year.
Chief Perez credits the reduction in crime to effective collaboration with city leaders, the use of digital intelligence policing methods, and targeted enforcement strategies focused on the 10% of offenders responsible for 90% of crime in the area. In 2025 alone, law enforcement has already confiscated 62 firearms.
Gun Crimes Report Reveals Ongoing Challenges
Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha provided insights from an annual Gun Crimes Report, which highlighted that while existing gun laws are actively enforced, many older gun cases remain unresolved in the system. The report indicates that “hundreds if not thousands” of gun cases dating back to 1978 are pending review. Within 2024, out of 415 gun cases charged, 265 have yet to be resolved. There was a slight increase in cases involving high-capacity magazines from 55 in 2023 to 58 in 2024.
Significant legal actions against gun crimes have been noted, including a conviction for Ferdinando Lombardi, who was found guilty of possessing ghost guns and drug trafficking. Another case involved Martin McLintock, who faced charges for carrying a firearm illegally and possessing high-capacity magazines. Several convictions have led to substantial prison sentences, including seven exceeding ten years and others varying from five to ten years.
Legislative Efforts and Community Impact
With the impending vote on the new gun legislation, officials aim to reinforce the idea that stricter enforcement of existing laws is essential. The push for revisions is part of an ongoing effort to address the intricacies of gun-related crimes amidst ongoing debates among advocates and policymakers regarding the necessity of new laws.
In 2024, high-profile cases include the sentencing of a man involved in a 2012 triple homicide, who received an 18-year term for his actions. Additionally, Alex “Bemba” Perez was convicted on multiple firearm charges associated with gang-related incidents. These developments underline the need for continued vigilance and adaptability in law enforcement strategies.
As the legislative process unfolds, the Providence Police Department acknowledges the importance of partnerships with local leaders and the community in enhancing safety and fostering a crime-free environment for residents.