Montana Crime Soars in 2019

The Big Sky State was no stranger to crime in 2019, with FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) data revealing a significant spike in overall crime rates. According to the FBI UCR, Montana saw a 4.2% increase in the overall crime rate compared to the previous year, with violent crime rates rising by 10.5% and property crime rates jumping by 4.1%.

This surge in crime was part of a larger national trend, with the FBI UCR reporting a 3.4% increase in overall crime rates nationwide. The UCR data, which covers crimes reported to law enforcement agencies across the United States, provides a comprehensive look at crime trends in Montana and the country as a whole.

One of the most notable crime trends in Montana in 2019 was the increase in property crimes, with burglary and theft leading the charge. According to the FBI UCR, burglary rates rose by 7.3% in Montana, while larceny-theft rates increased by 4.5%. This surge in property crimes was not unique to Montana, as the FBI UCR reported a 3.6% increase in burglary rates and a 4.2% increase in larceny-theft rates nationwide.

The increase in crime rates in Montana in 2019 was not limited to property crimes. Violent crime rates also saw a significant spike, with a 10.5% increase compared to the previous year. This increase was driven in part by a 15.6% rise in aggravated assault rates and a 5.6% increase in robbery rates.

While the FBI UCR data for Montana in 2019 paints a grim picture, it’s essential to note that crime rates can fluctuate from year to year and may be influenced by a variety of factors, including changes in law enforcement strategies and community demographics. Nevertheless, the data provides a valuable snapshot of crime trends in the state and highlights the need for continued efforts to address and prevent crime.