DENVER — Overall crime in Denver declined during the first six months of 2026, according to new data released by the Denver Police Department, but city leaders expressed concern over a sharp increase in homicides.
Police said total crime fell 0.4% compared with the same period last year, with decreases reported across every major crime category except homicides. The number of homicides increased by nearly 37%, making it the only category to trend upward.
Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas said the department is encouraged by the overall reduction in crime but is not satisfied because of the increase in deadly violence. He did not provide a specific explanation for the rise in homicides…