On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, Raleigh Police Chief Rico Boyce presented his Summer Action Plan 2025 to council members, including the mayor and city manager. This plan focuses on collaborative efforts to enhance safety and well-being throughout the city. From June 1 to August 31, the department will dedicate all of its resources, utilizing the latest crime-prevention technology, and will be strengthened by support from partnering agencies and community organizations to unify the Summer Action Plan.
Strategic Enforcement
This initiative emphasizes several key priorities of Chief Boyce: enhancing community engagement, increasing operational efficiency, and implementing effective strategies to reduce crime. With a strong focus on prevention and strategic enforcement, the department aims to create safer neighborhoods and a greater sense of security for everyone in the city.
Key Objectives:
- Eliminating Violent Crime
- Removing Dangerous Illegal Firearms
- Holding Repeat Offenders Accountable
Hospitality District
The Hospitality District, led by a Captain and a Lieutenant, will manage the hospitality areas of downtown Raleigh. This unit will leverage the resources and expertise of the Raleigh Police Department's Hospitality, Transit, Permitting, and Code Enforcement Officers. Together, they will combat crime, investigate complaints, and foster a safe, vibrant, and healthy environment for Raleigh residents, workers, visitors, and learners.
District Commander:
- Captain Matthew VanAntwerp
Units:
- Hospitality Unit
- Transit Unit
- Bicycle Unit
Speciality Units
The Greenway Unit, comprised of four officers, patrols 124 miles of greenway and 235 city parks, assisting with medical emergencies and addressing community complaints from 86 staffed centers. They also engage with the unhoused population to promote voluntary compliance and work closely with other city departments and business partners to enhance community safety.
The Mounted Unit, expanding from two to three officers, operates under the Greenway Unit and emphasizes positive community interaction in parks and greenways. Their presence is designed to strengthen relationships with community members while attending community events and providing elevated surveillance during large gatherings. Together, these units enhance safety and quality of life in Raleigh throughout the summer.
- Transit Unit
- Bike Unit
- Mounted Unit
- Greenway Unit
- Traffic Enforcement Unit
ACORNS Unit
ACORNS (Addressing Crises through Outreach, Referrals, Networking and Service) assists individuals impacted by homelessness, mental illness, and substance use disorders. The ACORNS Unit helps individuals connect with community resources to establish long-term stability by breaking down barriers through care navigation. Participation is voluntary.
Focus Areas
The Hospitality Unit plays a key role in maintaining safety and order in the Glenwood South Hospitality Corridor and the Central Business District, especially during nightlife hours. Through proactive patrols, the squad helps deter crime and ensure a secure environment for residents and visitors.
- Nightclubs
- Transportation hubs
- Public Parks and Greenways
- Hospitality and Nightlife Corridors
The Transit/Bike Unit is dedicated to enhancing safety across key areas of the Central Business District, including the GoRaleigh Station, Moore Square, City-owned parking decks, and surrounding corridors. The unit emphasizes and develops strong partnerships with downtown community members, business owners, and visitors. Officers primarily patrol on foot and using RECON electric bicycles, enabling them to navigate downtown efficiently.
Community Engagement
Community Engagement remains a top priority for RPD. The Summer Action Plan will significantly emphasize community-building strategies to advance this critical initiative. The department understands the importance of fostering positive relationships with the community and has identified several key opportunities to do so. Through outreach and youth/family programs, we aim to provide safe, constructive spaces for young people to connect and engage with one another, offering positive alternatives for recreation and interaction.
- Cops on the Block
- Raleigh Hoops Nights
- Police Youth Camps
- National Night Out
- Public Safety Cadets Unit
Learn more about the Cops on the Block initiative.
Learn more about Summer Camps offered.
The department will host Raleigh Hoop Nights at several park locations this summer. It is an excellent opportunity for our officers to engage with our community and the next generation. These events are free to attend. Register today!
Employment Opportunities
The department offers a variety of employment opportunities to our youth. Learn more about the Raleigh Police Internship Program.