In the first quarter of 2024, the United States experienced a notable decrease in crime rates. According to the FBI, burglaries declined by 16.7%, and car thefts decreased by 17.3% across all regions of the country.
Attorney General Merrick Garland Commends Crime Reduction
This Article Includes
- 1 Attorney General Merrick Garland Commends Crime Reduction
- 2 Sharp Decline in US Murder Rate
- 3 Nationwide Murder Decrease Confirmed by AH Datalytics
- 4 Preliminary FBI Data and its Limitations
- 5 Consistent Decline in US Crime Rates
- 6 Decrease in Murder Rates Following 2020 Surge
- 7 Experts’ Analysis of US Crime Trends
Attorney General Merrick Garland lauded the recent crime statistics, stating that the continued decrease in violent crimes in the US is not only saving lives but also enhancing safety for communities. Garland emphasized that the reduction in crime means more individuals can live their lives, witness their children grow, and contribute positively to their communities.
Sharp Decline in US Murder Rate
The latest FBI data indicates a significant decrease in the murder rate in the US. AH Datalytics, a research firm, reported that murders in cities such as New Orleans, Seattle, Boston, Baltimore, and Philadelphia have plummeted by over 40% compared to early 2023. This trend could potentially lead to the largest annual drop in murders ever recorded.
Nationwide Murder Decrease Confirmed by AH Datalytics
Jeff Asher, co-founder of AH Datalytics, revealed that their analysis of 265 cities shows a 19% decrease in murders nationwide compared to the previous year. With more than six months remaining in 2024, Asher believes this year could witness the most substantial one-year drop in US history.
Preliminary FBI Data and its Limitations
Despite these positive trends, the FBI’s preliminary data has its limitations. It is based on reports from police departments, which may contain inaccuracies. Police departments have until the end of the year to review and rectify their data before the final annual report is issued.
Consistent Decline in US Crime Rates
Despite these limitations, various sources indicate a consistent decline in US crime rates. Jeff Asher pointed out that while the FBI’s method might exaggerate the drop, the overall trend of decreasing crime rates is evident across multiple sources.
Decrease in Murder Rates Following 2020 Surge
The decrease in murder rates comes after a significant surge in 2020, largely attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. During that year, murders increased by nearly 30%, marking the largest rise since the 1960s. Violent crimes in the US also saw a 5% increase.
Experts’ Analysis of US Crime Trends
Experts attribute the 2020 surge in US crime to various factors, including the closure of schools, businesses, and community programs. Increased stress, higher prevalence of firearms, reduced policing, and diminished public trust also contributed to the rise. Jeff Asher noted that while the tools to combat violence were lacking during the pandemic, their availability now is helping to reduce murder rates and gun violence to levels seen before the pandemic.
