Florida Crime Rates and Statistics
Florida is known for its sunshine and beaches, but the state also has its downsides, such as crime. Crime is an issue in Florida, just like it is in most other states.
The combined rate of property and violent crimes in Florida averages 25.38 incidents per 1,000 residents. While this may seem a little high, the good news is that Florida’s violent crime rate is below the national average of 4.0 per 1,000 people. It’s holding steady at 3.8 and ranks #25 among all the states, reflecting efforts by law enforcement agencies to maintain public safety.
However, Florida is seeing a surge in package thefts. The national average is 53%, and Florida is at 61%. The surge in package theft signals an increasing need for innovative personal safety devices and community vigilance. Other concerns include violent crimes in homes, vandalism, and property damage, showing a need for public safety strategies.
Florida also has higher-than-average levels of property crime (53% vs. 50%) and gun violence (51% vs. 47%). Stranger-related violent incidents are also common. A high number of violent crime cases involve victims and offenders who are strangers. There have been 8,214 of these crimes.
Gun violence is prominent. There have been consistent mass shooting incidents in the Sunshine State. There have been 13 mass shootings in Florida since 1982, tying the state with Texas for second place. California has had double the amount, with 26 mass shootings. A mass shooting is defined as a shooting where at least three people are killed.
Not all of Florida is dangerous. There are some cities that are not as safe as others. Palm Springs, Daytona Beach, Riviera Beach, Panama City, and Lake Worth Beach are considered the most dangerous cities, as they are listed among the top 100 most dangerous cities in the United States. Historically, Miami-Dade and Duval counties have had the highest crime rates, but this changes every year due to various factors and law enforcement efforts.
All of these crime issues are taking a toll on residents, with many Floridians concerned about their safety. Florida ranks eighth for daily safety concerns. More than 60% of residents worry about their safety every day. Three-quarters of residents believe that crime is increasing, indicating heightened public apprehension.
On the bright side, there are some safe parts of Florida. Marco Island is recognized as Florida’s safest city based on various safety indexes and crime reports. The top 10 cities are:
- Marco Island
- Parkland
- Weston
- Winter Springs
- Oviedo
- Satellite Beach
- Port St. Lucie
- North Palm Beach
- Cooper City
- Sebastian
Contact Us Today
Many crimes occur in Florida. If you have been accused of crime, you need to act quickly to protect your legal rights.
A Florida criminal defense lawyer from Linkhorst & Hockin, P.A. can assess your situation and help defend you from the charges you face. Call 561-626-8880 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.
Source:
getsafeandsound.com/blog/florida-crime-rates/
