Wyoming 1936: Rise of Larceny and Burglary

In 1936, Wyoming ranked among the top states for larceny and burglary rates, according to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program. The FBI UCR, established in 1930, aimed to gather crime data from participating law enforcement agencies nationwide. That year, Wyoming’s law enforcement reported a significant spike in property crimes, with larceny and burglary leading the charge.

The Great Depression, which had begun in 1929, continued to wreak havoc on the nation’s economy. As people struggled to make ends meet, property crimes surged. The FBI UCR reported a nationwide increase in larceny and burglary rates, with 33.6% of all reported crimes being property-related. In Wyoming, this trend was particularly pronounced, with law enforcement agencies reporting a notable rise in theft and burglary.

Wyoming’s economic struggles were not unique to the state. The national unemployment rate hovered around 16.9%, and many Americans turned to crime as a means of survival. The FBI UCR data revealed that most property crimes were committed by individuals, often in desperation. In Wyoming, the state’s rural landscape and sparse population may have contributed to the prevalence of property crimes.

The FBI UCR also reported a notable increase in crimes involving motor vehicles. As car ownership became more widespread, so did motor vehicle theft and burglary. In Wyoming, law enforcement agencies reported a significant number of stolen vehicles, many of which were likely used for transportation or sold for parts. The rise of the automobile industry had created a new frontier for crime, and law enforcement agencies struggled to keep pace.

The 1936 FBI UCR data provides a glimpse into the darker side of America’s past. As the nation struggled to recover from the Great Depression, crime rates rose, and law enforcement agencies faced unprecedented challenges. In Wyoming, the rise of larceny and burglary serves as a reminder of the economic and social turmoil that characterized this pivotal year in American history.