CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – A decrease in drug overdoses highlighted the 2025 annual report from the Charlottesville Police Department released last week.

The overall findings, some of which were released in February, included a reduction in Part 1 crime, which are the more serious offenses including violence and property crimes, as well as data on over 49,000 calls for service. That data showed a 0.22% rate of the use of force by the officers.

The release of the full report included more detailed information regarding the rates of drug overdoses and substance abuse related crimes. Kochis cited a number of reasons, including the efforts of his officers, for the drop. He also praised community partnerships.

“We’re seeing a reduction in overdoses,” CPD Police Chief Michael Kochis said. “Now, these are reported overdoses, so you have to put it in context. But we are seeing a reduction in overdoses and so, I think a few things can contribute to that. Number 1, from a law enforcement side, our 3A task force folks, which we are a part of, they’re just doing some awesome work in and around the community, working together, really identifying those drug trafficking organizations at the mid- to upper-levels and working to dismantle those. But there’s also a lot being done on the ground the accessibility of Naloxone, or Narcan, that’s been very helpful. Education campaigns. There’s a lot of work done around that space. So, while law enforcement, we have a big role in that, I will also say the whole community approach is really what’s been effective for us.”

While pleased with the fact that overdoses are apparently declining, Kochis says the main concern continues to be the criminal enterprise of drug distribution locally.

“It’s a significant threat, I can tell you right now you don’t know what you’re getting. I think that’s the big piece. We’ve seen marijuana laced with fentanyl. They’re putting that stuff in everything. That’s the biggest fear. You just don’t know what you’re getting. So, for our young folks out there who think they’re getting one thing and then the next thing you know, they drop. It’s scary stuff.”

Kochis said enforcement work when it comes to the drug trade, as police aim to disrupt mid to upper-level enterprises.

“This is dangerous work, really dangerous work,” Kochis said. “When you’re talking about money you’re talking about, often times, violence associated with it. It’s very dangerous work and it always has been. So, I couldn’t be more proud of our folks and the work they’re doing in collaboration with the 3A task force.”

Overall, Kochis noted that Part 1 crime was down about 11%, almost 18% if minus larceny (which can include shoplifting).

“Looking really good but still have work to do,” Kochis said. “We can’t spike the football. You look back, see what’s been working, what can we improve upon, and still get out there and serve our community.”