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Connecticut Violent Crime Rate Lowest Since 1974, FBI Report Shows

FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. -- Connecticut’s crime rate is at a 50-year low, with violent transgressions the lowest levels since 1974, and overall numbers the lowest since 1967, FBI records show. 

Gov. Dannel Malloy touted the efforts of officials across the state which led to the second biggest drop in crime nationwide in 2015.

Gov. Dannel Malloy touted the efforts of officials across the state which led to the second biggest drop in crime nationwide in 2015.

Photo Credit: Meredith Guinness

Connecticut also has seen the second largest decrease in violent crime nationwide.

Crime numbers from 2015 released by the FBI indicate an 8.5 percent change over the previous year.

The drop in violent crime in 2015 builds upon a compelling drop in violent crime from 2014 and 2013. 

“Over the last six years, we have experienced significant reductions in crime in Connecticut. We are making extraordinary strides in fostering safer communities with crime at a 50-year low and continuing Connecticut’s downward trend of violent crime. We’re being smart on crime and transforming our criminal justice system– and it’s working,” Gov. Dannel P. Malloy said. “We have taken action to our make our communities the safest they have been [in] two generations—a testament to the dedication of our police officers, our public safety officials, and our community advocates who prove that, by working together, it’s possible to reform the system while improving public safety.” 

Connecticut was only second to North Dakota, which experienced a decrease of 9.4 percent. 

Since 2010, violent crime in Connecticut has reduced 22 percent from 10,083 incidents reported in 2010 to 7,845 incidents reported in 2015. This drop includes a 2.6 percent decrease in rape, an 8.8 percent decrease in robberies and a 10.1 percent decrease in aggravated assaults.

"Smart, strategic anti-crime and anti-violence initiatives are making a big difference in Connecticut,” said Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman. “The governor’s leadership and the expertise and dedication of our public safety officials mean our communities are safer for everyone.” 

Nonviolent property crimes have also decreased in the state during 2015, including a 16.7 percent drop in burglaries and a 4.9 percent drop in larcenies. However, the state did witness a 3.7 percent increase in motor vehicle thefts. 

Connecticut is one of nine states to experience a drop in violent crime over the last year.

Click here to read the full study from the FBI.

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