The stats show a decrease in certain types of violent crimes, with an increase in other types.
Recently, Attorney General Xavier Becerra released a report on California’s most recent crime statistics, showing how crime numbers have changed between 2016 and 2017. These numbers are not just interesting — they also demonstrate how criminal justice reforms have impacted the state, and where law enforcement priorities may be in the coming years.
In recent years, California has moved away from its harsh criminal penalties of the past. While it still has its “Three Strikes” law, it has moved to decriminalize marijuana possession, and is exploring other forms of criminal justice reform, such as the cash bail system. Critics have argued that these changes will lead to crime increases. While the statistics in this recent report are only for one year, they may be used to demonstrate that there has not been a significant increase in crime — and that it has actually decreased in some respects.
According to a Riverside criminal defense lawyer, the overall violent crime rate increased across California by 1.5 percent (per 100,000 people) between 2016 and 2017. At the same time, the property crime rate decreased by 2.1 percent.
The homicide rate decreased from 4.9 to 4.6 percent. The rape rate increased by 6.9 percent. Importantly, when it comes to crimes such as sexual assault, there may be an increase due to more victims coming forward to report the crime. The total arrest rate for rape cases remained the same as in 2016, at 8.3 percent. Motor vehicle theft decreased by 5.3 percent, while the arson rate increased by 10.7 percent.
Perhaps most significantly, the total felony drug offense rate decreased by 23.5 percent. The arrest rate for marijuana offenses decreased by 73.7 percent, and the rate for dangerous drug offenses decreased by 12.7 percent. This is due to the change in drug laws in California, and will likely result in the ability of law enforcement to devote more time and resources to other, more serious crimes.
While these crime statistics do not have a direct impact on individuals’ criminal cases, they do demonstrate that the criminal reforms that benefit defendants in the criminal justice system will not cause havoc. Instead, it will lead to more fairness and fewer resources devoted to minor crimes, such as marijuana possession.
As an experienced Riverside criminal defense lawyer, attorney Dan E. Chambers has worked as both a prosecutor and a defense attorney. He understands the system, and is devoted to helping his clients achieve justice. He zealously advocates for each of his clients, and puts his substantial knowledge to work for them.
If you have been charged with a crime, the Chambers Law Firm is here for you. With a team of dedicated professionals, we are ready to assist you. Contact us today at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com to schedule a free initial consultation with a skilled Riverside criminal defense lawyer.
