Wheeling’s Remarkable Decline in Crime: A Community Effort

Photo by: Joselyn King (file)
Wheeling Police Deputy Chief Josh Sanders and Chief Shawn Schwertfeger at an Ohio County Board of Education meeting.

In an astonishing turn of events, the city of Wheeling recorded its lowest crime rates in a decade in 2024, with improvements markedly evident in 2025. Recent data from the Wheeling Police Department reveals a comprehensive decline in both serious and minor crimes, showcasing a concerted effort from law enforcement and the community alike.

Statistically Significant Drops

The figures speak volumes about the city’s commitment to safety. From 2024 to 2025, Wheeling has observed a remarkable 14% decrease in overall crime rates. Noteworthy drops include:

• Robberies: Reduced by 59%
• Motor Vehicle Theft: Reduced by 58%
• Burglary: Reduced by 24%
• Assaults: Reduced by 19%
• Larceny/Thefts: Reduced by 15%

This data indicates that the city’s multi-faceted approach to crime prevention is yielding tangible results. Chief Shawn Schwertfeger expressed his excitement about these statistics, emphasizing that this improvement is a testament not only to the police force’s hard work but also to community collaboration.

The Opioid Crisis: A Community Challenge

Another noteworthy achievement involves addressing the opioid crisis that has deeply affected communities across the nation. Drug overdoses and associated fatalities in Wheeling have declined significantly. Overdose deaths fell from 14 in 2024 to just nine in 2025, a 36% reduction. Overdoses overall dropped by 24%, from 114 to 87.

Chief Schwertfeger highlighted that these numbers are particularly astounding given the alarming overdose statistics recorded in 2021, which peaked at 210 overdoses and 28 deaths. This steady decline indicates effective intervention strategies are taking root.

Collaborative Efforts: A Collective Responsibility

Several factors contributed to Wheeling’s improved safety landscape. Chief Schwertfeger praised the robust communication between the police department and other city departments, including code enforcement. Improved information-sharing has played a crucial role in identifying and addressing safety concerns proactively.

Key partnerships with organizations like the West Virginia First Foundation have also been pivotal, providing funding crucial for police work, especially in combating the opioid epidemic.

The police chief acknowledged the immense support from Wheeling’s residents. Initiatives such as neighborhood crime watch groups have created a strong community network that actively participates in keeping their neighborhoods safe. The introduction of a new downtown/business crime watch group set for 2026 aims to engage local business owners directly in safety measures.

Fostering a Culture of Help

Chief Schwertfeger’s narrative emphasizes compassion over punishment. He recounts an instance where he stopped to talk to an individual struggling with addiction; this personal interaction led to immediate help rather than legal repercussions. Such a philosophy reflects a shift towards more human-centered policing, focusing on rehabilitation as well as accountability.

This ethos extends to the Crisis Response Unit, which operates continuously to offer support for mental health emergencies, substance use issues, and homelessness. This specialized unit represents the first of its kind in West Virginia and has already assisted 18 individuals in accessing treatment in 2025.

Continued Commitment to Progress

Looking ahead to 2026, Chief Schwertfeger plans to build on current successes. Continuing effective communication with other departments, leveraging data analytics to pinpoint areas of concern, and further developing the Crisis Response Unit will remain focal points of strategy.

The new downtown/business crime watch group will facilitate deeper ties with local business owners, enhancing their safety amid ongoing development efforts in the area.

The emphasis on skill development within the police department highlights a commitment to continuous improvement. The department’s youthfulness is viewed as an asset, and recruitment will focus on enhancing its capabilities.

As Wheeling stands at this pivotal point, the city’s comprehensive approach toward crime reduction and community involvement illustrates a model for others to consider, epitomizing the spirit of collaboration and resilience.