The Raleigh Police Department is launching its 2026 Summer Action Plan. The City-wide initiative focuses on proactive crime prevention, strategic enforcement, and community engagement during the busy summer months.
Running from June 1 through Aug. 31, the plan outlines several initiatives designed to:
- Strengthen public safety;
- Build trust with residents; and,
- Improve the quality of life across Raleigh.
The strategy combines targeted enforcement efforts with youth programming, neighborhood outreach, and partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies.
“Public safety is always our top priority, and these initiatives will help ensure that both community members and visitors can fully enjoy everything the city has to offer."
– Raleigh Police Chief, Rico L. Boyce.
Key Priorities
The 2026 Summer Action Plan focuses on five key strategic priorities:
- Community engagement
- Crime reduction strategies
- Operational efficiency
- Accountability and leadership
- Employee development and wellness
Major Initiatives
Among the plan’s major initiatives is a renewed emphasis on operations that target violent offenders, repeat criminal activity, impaired driving, and juvenile crime. The department will also continue patrols aimed at reckless driving, unlawful loud exhaust systems, and other quality-of-life concerns.
New this year, the department is introducing CrimeMapper, an interactive tool that lets residents explore police incident activity across the city. Built using the same data as the City’s Open Data Portal, the tool is designed to improve transparency while protecting sensitive information.
The Summer Action Plan also expands community-focused initiatives throughout Raleigh. Residents can participate in the Raleigh Summer Safety program, which will offer education on topics such as water safety, road safety, nightlife safety, fire safety, and outdoor safety through information sessions and activities.
Youth engagement remains a major component of the plan. Programs including Raleigh Hoop Nights, youth summer camps, mentoring opportunities, and the Public Safety Cadets program are designed to provide positive recreational opportunities while strengthening relationships between officers and young people in the community.
Additionally, the department will continue supporting vulnerable populations through the ACORNS and Raleigh CARES, programs that connect individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, or substance use disorders with long-term community resources and support services. Since its creation in 2021, ACORNS has made more than 2,000 contacts throughout the community.
The plan also highlights the department’s continued partnerships with agencies, including the FBI, DEA, ATF, Wake County Sheriff’s Office, Raleigh Fire Department, and other local organizations. They are working collaboratively to reduce crime and improve public safety outcomes.
Learn More
Community members interested in learning more about the Summer Action Plan and upcoming events can visit our Raleigh Police webpage.