Crime can be an issue no matter where you live, but it is common knowledge that some places are more dangerous to live than others. In the same regard, people may differ in opinion on what they consider to be a “safer” crime. Some may feel being mugged on the street is more invasive than their home being robbed. Others could argue they would rather be mugged on the street rather than have their home invaded and burglarized. No matter the crime, if it is reported, it gets recorded. The numbers reveal interesting crime behaviors. While we know that some places are more crime-heavy than others, statistics show that the crime numbers hold steady across all jurisdictions. Let us take a look at crime statistics for Washington and our neighboring state of Oregon.

Crime Statistics in Washington

Muni Guide, a hub for municipal research data, released 2016 crime data (compiled by the FBI) for all 50-states. Its data shows that 302.2 violent crimes per 100,000 state inhabitants were reported in Washington for the year 2016. The United States median for violent crime is 370.3 per 100,000 inhabitants, which puts Washington approximately 18.5 percent lower in the area of violent crimes than the national average. Further, nearly 3,500 property crimes per 100,000 inhabitants were reported that same year. Unfortunately, inhabitants of Washington might feel dread to know that Washington has a property crime rate of 35 percent higher than the national median which is just over 2,500 property crimes per 100,000 inhabitants. Larceny-theft is by far the most popular crime committed in Washington making up 62 percent of all reported crime.

Crime Statistics in Oregon

The crime numbers reported in Oregon are as follows:

• 264.6 violent crimes reported per 100,000 inhabitants, and
• 2,964 property crimes reported per 100,000 inhabitants.

Oregon has a violent crime rate that is 28.5 percent lower than that of the U.S. median and a property crimes rate that is nearly 15 percent higher than the reported national average. Compared to Washington, Oregon is a “safer” state in which to reside. Oregon does have a higher rate of theft than Washington. Sixty-nine percent of all crime reported in Oregon is larceny-theft.

Contact a Seattle Criminal Defense Attorney

Even though the above statistics may reflect Washington to have a higher crime rate, it is beneficial to keep in mind that these are crimes that were “reported” and the numbers do not take into account an actual conviction. If you or a loved one have been arrested for any crime in the Seattle area it is imperative that you speak with a criminal defense attorney immediately. Lawyer Steve Karimi is a top-rated criminal defense lawyer in the Seattle area. He has the dedication and experience it takes to protect your constitutional rights and achieve the best possible outcome in your case. Do not hesitate—contact the Law Offices of Steve Karimi today.