Reinforced and Expanded Partnership on 'Secure Heilbronn'

Heilbronn, Germany - The city of Heilbronn has taken significant steps to enhance the safety and security of its residents, as evidenced by the recent signing of the cooperation agreement "Safe Heilbronn" on October 17, 2024.

The agreement, which was signed by the Police Director of Heilbronn, aims to minimize crime and related public order disturbances, enhance subjective security, and increase the presence of police officers. The initiative builds upon the "Safe Heilbronn" concept that was agreed and implemented by the Police Headquarters Heilbronn and the city of Heilbronn on April 24, 2023.

Thomas Strobl, Deputy Minister-President and Interior Minister, stated that the agreement focuses on areas where people feel afraid. Frank Spitzmüller, Police President, mentioned that the agreement will continue the proven cooperation and keep the security interests of the citizens in mind.

Heilbronn has been below the average crime rate of large cities in Baden-Württemberg for the past ten years. In 2023, the crime rate was 8,186 crimes per 100,000 inhabitants, which was lower than the average of the nine large cities in the region. Despite a 28.7% increase in total crimes compared to the previous year, a significantly higher clearance rate (67.1%) was achieved in Heilbronn, marking a 20-year high.

The city has declared the area around the main station and parts of the city center as weapon and knife ban zones. Prostitution has been prohibited in the area of the harbor street, and an alcohol ban has been imposed in the area of Flügelnussbaum/Stadtgarten. The city conducted a citizen survey on the topic of "Subjective sense of security" in the summer of 2022.

The positive effects of the implemented measures will be further strengthened and expanded with the new cooperation agreement "Safe Heilbronn". The agreement also includes measures to combat crime, increased controls, early place bans, bans on residence and other official measures against criminals and disruptive groups, and an increased deployment of civilian police officers.

As of 2024, there is an indication of a decrease in public space crimes, particularly aggressive offenses, due to the implemented measures. Harry Mergel, Mayor of Heilbronn, emphasized the importance of citizens feeling safe and enjoying the city's diversity. The cooperation agreement "Safe Heilbronn" is a testament to the city's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its residents.