Delaware Crime Rates Hit Hard in 1935

Delaware hit rock bottom in 1935 when it came to crime. The state’s crime rates skyrocketed, making it one of the toughest places to be in the nation. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, which began collecting data in 1930, Delaware’s crime trends were particularly alarming.

The UCR program, established by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), aimed to standardize crime reporting across the United States. While the program was still in its infancy, it provided valuable insights into the nation’s crime landscape. In 1935, Delaware’s crime rates were on par with many major cities, including New York and Chicago, but with a much smaller population.

The Great Depression, which began in 1929, had a devastating impact on Delaware’s economy and residents. Poverty, unemployment, and desperation fueled a rise in crimes such as larceny, burglary, and automobile theft. These types of crimes were on the rise nationally, with reported incidents increasing by 10% between 1934 and 1935.

Violent crimes, including murder, manslaughter, and robbery, also saw an uptick in Delaware. However, the overall trend remained in favor of property crimes, which accounted for the majority of reported offenses. The lack of economic opportunities and the general sense of unease in the community contributed to the surge in crime.

Delaware’s law enforcement agencies struggled to keep pace with the rising crime rates. With limited resources and outdated methods, they often relied on community policing and neighborhood watch programs to combat the problem. Despite these efforts, crime remained a pressing concern in the state, and it would take a concerted effort to address the root causes and bring crime rates under control.