Charlotte Summary

Charlotte is facing a 15% rise in crime in the Uptown area, prompting District Attorney Spencer Merriweather to prioritize the prosecution of repeat offenders, as reported by multiple sources. Meanwhile, the Charlotte City Council is under scrutiny for a $3.4 million public relations campaign focused on transit, which some critics, including the Mecklenburg County GOP, argue should instead fund safety measures on light rail platforms or provide police presence on trains.

In community news, the family of Frezja Baker, a 31-year-old mother missing since Thursday, is intensifying their search as the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department releases new images in hopes of finding her.

Additionally, a free mobile pharmacy will be available at Camino Salud this Friday, supporting the Latino community amidst recent Border Patrol operations. Lastly, the I-485 Express Lanes project has been delayed, now slated to open in early 2026, potentially extending traffic woes for commuters in the region.