Police, city leaders reveal why they believe homicide numbers are down in Columbus

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – The City of Columbus is coming off several of the most violent years in the city’s history.

Columbus police data shows a surge in youth crime. Also, 2021 is known to be the deadliest year on record. But so far this year, police data shows a turn for the better with the city’s homicide rate dropping by nearly 40%.

Andrew Clayborn knows exactly what violence can do to a family.

“It forces you to deal with mental anguish and pain that you didn't know existed,” Clayborn said. 

His brother Andre was killed in October 2020. That year was the start of four of the most violent years in Columbus’ history. 

“I believe that we weren't attentive enough, you know, we weren't intentional enough about making sure that we get the relationships," Clayborn said.

He said he has worked hard since then to be a part of the change. Clayborn said he is finally starting to see the shift in mentality.

So far in 2024, there have been 19 homicides. This time last year there were at least 50, and in 2021, at least 58.

“To see the numbers decrease the way that they have is showing that because of intentionality, because we are serious about it,” Clayborn said.

Columbus Police Commander Mark Denner looks at these statistics every day. He said they are always looking at new measures to impact these numbers and try to change what they can control.

“We also just recognize that a lot of it is individual decision making. We try to have a role in that,” Denner said. “Last year we talked about domestic violence incidents. We talked about after hours clubs and we worked on ways to, you know, have an impact and address those.”

He said they are focusing on being proactive and reactive. Proactive by building relationships with the community, prosecutors and judges. Reactive by analyzing data and putting their attention to areas they are seeing violent spikes. 

Denner said what has really made the change is genuine partnerships.

“Relationships are key in life and I think when you have those positive relationships and you're building those foundations,” Denner said.

After his brother died, Clayborn founded The Son Son Foundation. It’s focused on mental health. He said one of the things they do is go into prisons to help parents become better role models to their children when they’re released.

“We, the people, have the power and we're seeing that now as we collaborate and we do things collectively. This isn't an individual problem. It's a community problem in the community. And the community now is coming together,” Clayborn said.

Commander Denner said it is important to recognize the number 19 is still 19 real people who lost lives.

Violence does tend to pick up in the summer. Denner said the Columbus Division of Police has plans to increase patrol through things like Operation Moonlight. They also have programs to engage with the youth.

Clayborn said he has plans for the summer too. A lot of that is keeping young people engaged and busy with sports and arts programs so they stay out of trouble.