Wisconsin in 2020: Crime Rates Climb Amid Pandemic

In 2020, Wisconsin reported a significant increase in violent crime, bucking a national trend of declining rates. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, violent crime in Wisconsin rose by about 8% compared to the previous year. This increase was felt across the state, with cities and rural areas alike experiencing an uptick in violent offenses.

The FBI’s UCR program collects and analyzes crime data from law enforcement agencies across the United States. In 2020, Wisconsin had a total of over 2,400 reported violent crimes, including murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. While the overall number of violent crimes remained relatively low, the percentage increase was a notable concern for law enforcement officials and community leaders.

Across the country, the COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on crime rates. As states implemented lockdowns and social distancing measures, many people turned to illicit substances and other vices to cope with the stress and isolation of the pandemic. This led to an increase in drug-related crimes, including overdose deaths and property crimes related to the black market for illicit substances.

In Wisconsin, the pandemic also fueled a rise in property crimes, including burglary and motor vehicle theft. As people stayed home and businesses closed, opportunities for thieves and looters increased, leading to a notable spike in reported property crimes. The overall number of property crimes in Wisconsin rose by about 15% compared to the previous year.

Law enforcement officials and community leaders in Wisconsin are working to address the rising crime rates and their underlying causes. This includes increased funding for community programs, enhanced collaboration between law enforcement agencies, and a renewed focus on prevention and intervention efforts. As the state continues to navigate the challenges of the pandemic, it remains to be seen how crime rates will evolve in the coming years.