In 2018, Arkansas reported a 6.5% increase in violent crime rates compared to the previous year, according to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program. This trend mirrored a national increase, with the UCR program noting a 3.4% rise in violent crime rates across the United States.
The rise in violent crime rates in Arkansas was driven by an increase in aggravated assaults, which accounted for 67.6% of all violent crimes reported in the state. Murder and non-negligent manslaughter rates remained relatively stable, with 4.8% of violent crimes reported in 2018. However, the number of robberies increased by 13.1% compared to the previous year, contributing to the overall rise in violent crime rates.
Despite the increase in violent crime rates, property crime rates in Arkansas declined by 4.9% in 2018. This trend was largely driven by a decrease in larceny-theft rates, which accounted for 56.6% of all property crimes reported in the state. Burglary rates also decreased by 10.4% compared to the previous year.
Nationally, the FBI’s UCR program reported a 2.6% decrease in property crime rates in 2018. This decline was driven by a 3.4% decrease in larceny-theft rates, which accounted for 58.3% of all property crimes reported across the United States. However, the UCR program noted a 0.4% increase in arson rates, which accounted for 2.6% of all property crimes reported nationally.
The rise in violent crime rates in Arkansas in 2018 was a concern for law enforcement officials and community leaders, who pointed to a range of factors contributing to the trend, including poverty, unemployment, and gang activity. The state’s crime rates in 2018 highlighted the need for continued investment in community-based programs and law enforcement initiatives aimed at reducing violence and improving public safety.
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Key Facts
- State: Arkansas
- Year: 2018
- Category: Historical Crime Statistics
- Source: FBI Uniform Crime Report ↗
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