According to newly-released data from the Seattle Police Department (SPD), incidents of violent crime in Seattle increased in 2017 compared to the previous two years. However, on a positive note, property crimes such as robbery, larceny, and car theft decreased. Although the record is mixed in terms of overall crime rates, the numbers of violent crimes such as murders, rapes, and aggravated assaults have increased, and in some situations, the increase is.
Are you currently charged with murder or another violent offense in the state of Washington? If so, contact a murder defense attorney from Emerald City Law Group at 206-973-0407 to schedule a free case consultation.
Seattle Crime Levels Compared with the Rest of the US
Violent crimes generally include murder, non-negligent manslaughter, aggravated assault, robbery, and forcible rape.
According to statistics provided by Sperling’s Best Places, Seattle ranked 53 on a scale of one to 100 in terms of violent crime. One was the lowest level of crime, while 100 was the highest. The U.S. average using this scale at the time this data was collected was 31.1.
In terms of property crime, Seattle ranked 65 on a scale from one to 100. The U.S. average for property crime was 38.1 when this information was compiled. Property crime offenses include arson, burglary, motor vehicle theft, and larceny theft. With these property crimes there is no threat of force or actual force used against the crime victims, there is only the taking of property or money.
The Sobering Seattle Violent Crime Statistics for 2017
There were 27 murders in Seattle in 2017. Although that number is the highest since 2008, it is still less per capita than the U.S. average. Another type of violent crime, rape, occurred 231 times in 2017, compared to 230 in 2016. 2017’s figure still represents a nine-year high.
Aided by a surge in domestic violence incidents, the number of assaults increased in Seattle in 2017. The number of domestic violence incidents rose from 577 in 2015 to 722 in 2017, an alarming 25 percent increase.
Some Positive Crime Statistics for 2017 in Seattle
While violent crime in Seattle did increase in 2017, non-violent property crimes were lower last year. In fact, the number of robberies fell to the lowest level since 2012.
According to the SPD, residential burglaries and auto thefts dropped by 11 percent each, and car prowls fell by five percent. Patrol officers, the Major Crimes Task force, precinct Anti-Crime Teams, and other detective units operated in the city to find and arrest these offenders.
Experienced Representation in Washington State for Your Violent Crime Charge
Have you been arrested for murder or another violent offense in the state of Washington? If so, you need a criminal defense attorney to help vigorously defend you during this challenging time. The team at Emerald City Law Group can fight for your acquittal or negotiate effectively to minimize the consequences you are facing.
To schedule a free consultation, fill out our contact form, or call us today at 206-973-0407.
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