28 Mar Arizona Violent Crime Rates Rise Higher Than National Average
Every city in the world has crime, however, some cities have a higher crime rate than others. In Arizona, a new report from the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) says Arizona’s violent crime rate rose higher than the national average between 2019 to 2020. Let’s take a closer look at the current Arizona crime rate and what lawmakers plan to do to help lower it.
Is crime increasing in Arizona?
According to data collected by the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer, between 2019 and 2020 violent crime incidents in the United States Increased by 4.6% overall. This amounts to about 398.5 violent crimes for every 100,000 people. For the same time period in Arizona, the violent crime rate rose by 8.6%, or 484.8 violent crimes for every 100,000 people.
The Crime Data Explorer includes statistics on violent crimes that use force or the threat of force. This includes rape, robbery, aggravated assault, and Arizona homicides including murder and nonnegligent manslaughter. The 2019-2020 data places Arizona as the state with the tenth highest violent crime ranking.
What are lawmakers planning to do to lower the Arizona crime rate?
To help combat increasing crime rates in Arizona, lawmakers recently introduced the Violent Incident Clearance and Technological Investigative Methods (VICTIM) Act. If passed, the VICTIM Act would provide $100 million a year in support to police departments for the next ten years.
The VICTIM Act would also establish a grant program through the Justice Department for police departments to hire and keep more officers, especially homicide detectives. It also provides more funds for officer training, not only in crime prevention, but also for victim assistance as well.
How can we reduce crime rates in Arizona?
While police officers and lawmakers work hard to improve Arizona’s crime statistics, there are several things that community members can do to help.
1: Join or Start a Community Organization
Arizona has a number of crime prevention nonprofit organizations that are always in need of volunteer help to expand their efforts. If you see a need that’s not already being covered by one of these organizations, consider starting your own! Statistics show community organizations help decrease rates of violent crime, property crime, and homicides.
2: Start a Neighborhood Watch
A Neighborhood Watch program is a great way to keep your community safe, get to know your neighbors, and build a sense of community. If your neighborhood does not have a neighborhood watch program, you can set one up quickly through the National Neighborhood Watch website.
3: Report Potential Crimes
If you notice any potential crimes or suspicious activity in your area, call the police immediately. In fact, a study shows people who report being victims of a crime to the police are less likely to be a victim of a crime in the future.
Criminal Defense Law Firm in Phoenix, Arizona
Sadly, Arizona is not the only state in the country plagued with violent crimes. However, if police, lawmakers, and the community can come together, a rising Arizona crime rate is a problem that can be solved.
It’s important to remember that being accused of a violent crime does not always mean you’re guilty. If you or a loved one faces charges of violent crime in Arizona, you will need a seasoned criminal defense specialist like Todd Coolidge at your side. Contact us for a consultation today at 602-795-0770 in Phoenix, or 480-264-5111 in Chandler.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (3/26/22). Photo by Bruno Martins on Unsplash