Edinburg PD earns statewide honors after historic crime drop, zero homicides in 2025

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Staff Report

Edinburg, TX – The City of Edinburg recorded a full calendar year without a homicide for the first time in more than three decades, according to data released by the Edinburg Police Department, marking a milestone officials say reflects sustained reductions in crime citywide.

Crime data from the National Incident-Based Reporting System shows major crimes declined 16 percent over the past year, while overall crime fell 12 percent compared with 2024. Violent crime has dropped 37 percent compared with four years ago, department officials reported.

Crime trends in Edinburg

NIBRS categorizes offenses into three primary groups, all of which showed decreases. Crimes against persons fell 15 percent and include offenses such as homicide, assault, kidnapping and sex-related crimes. Crimes against property declined 14 percent, including burglary, vehicle theft, arson, fraud and robbery. Crimes against society decreased 5 percent and include drug offenses, weapons violations and animal cruelty.

“These results are a direct reflection of the hard work and dedication of our officers and the strong partnerships we have built with our community,” said Edinburg Police Chief Jaime Ayala. “Reaching a year with zero homicides is a milestone we are extremely proud of, and it reinforces our commitment to keeping Edinburg a safe place to live, work, and play.”

State recognition for impaired driving enforcement

In addition to the local crime reductions, the Edinburg Police Department received statewide recognition for its impaired driving enforcement efforts. In 2025, the department ranked sixth statewide and first in the Rio Grande Valley in the LEADRS Top Performance category among more than 250 reporting law enforcement agencies in Texas.

Two officers also received individual honors. Officers Enrique Rodriguez and Javier Ponce placed first and second in the Rio Grande Valley for DWI arrests and ranked 14th and 15th statewide, respectively.

Department leaders said the enforcement results were supported by public education efforts and coordination with partner agencies throughout the region.

Community and department efforts

Police officials credited sworn officers, civilian staff and community partners for contributing to the reductions, noting that coordinated efforts remain a priority as the department works to maintain public safety and quality of life across Edinburg.

Source — City of Edinburg Police Department.