Wyoming 1978: Crime on the Range

In 1978, Wyoming experienced a significant rise in violent crime rates, according to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program.

The FBI UCR program, established in 1930, was the primary source for crime statistics in the United States during the 1970s. In 1978, the program reported a surge in violent crimes nationwide, with Wyoming bearing a disproportionate share of the increase. The state’s small population and rural nature made it an ideal location for law enforcement to track and analyze crime trends.

Nationally, the 1970s were marked by increased concern over violent crime, with the rise of the “get tough on crime” movement. This era saw the passage of mandatory sentencing laws and the expansion of prison populations. In Wyoming, the increase in violent crime was largely driven by property crimes, with burglaries and larcenies leading the way. The state’s vast open spaces and low population density made it an attractive location for thieves and vandals.

The year 1978 was also marked by a growing awareness of the need for improved crime data collection and analysis. The FBI’s UCR program was expanding its scope to include more detailed information on crime types and locations. This increased focus on crime data would lay the groundwork for future law enforcement initiatives and crime reduction strategies.

Wyoming’s law enforcement agencies, including the Wyoming Highway Patrol and local police departments, worked closely with the FBI to track and analyze crime trends. This collaboration helped to identify areas of high crime activity and inform targeted law enforcement efforts. While the rise in violent crime in Wyoming was a concern, the state’s law enforcement community remained committed to maintaining public safety and reducing crime rates.

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