In a recent crime report by the CBS News, the safety of California counties has been highlighted, revealing a stark contrast between the state’s safest and most dangerous regions. The report, based on data from the California Department of Justice spanning a decade from 2013 to 2022 uncovers significant disparities in crime rates across the state.
San Joaquin County Tops California in Crimes Per 1,000 Residents
San Joaquin County emerged as the most dangerous county with a strikingly high rate of violent crimes in 72 incidents per 1,000 residents nearly double the statewide average. The report details 56,177 violent crimes over ten years in this county including 617 homicides, 2,379 rapes, 14,592 robberies, and 38,589 aggravated assaults painting a grim picture of the safety situation there.
Stockton’s Mayoral and City Council Races Centered Around Addressing Record-Breaking Crime Rate as Community Demands Action
In response to the findings Stockton, the county seat and a hotspot for the reported violent crime is undergoing significant political shifts. With the current mayor, Kevin Lincoln running for Congress several city council seats and the mayoral position are contested. Safety has become a central issue in these races reflecting the community’s urgent concern about crime.
READ ALSO: 7-Year Low In Oxnard’s Murder Rate: A Testament To Decades-Long Crime Decline
(photo: Safe and Sound Security)
Leading Mayoral Candidate Tom Patti Seeks to Build on Crime Reduction Efforts with Economic Development and Community Support
San Joaquin County Supervisor and mayoral candidate Tom Patti who is currently leading in the mayoral race argues that recent data may not fully reflect the progress made. He cites a 32% reduction in overall crime in the past year and advocates for increased police presence and enhanced educational and vocational opportunities to further combat crime. Patti’s approach emphasizes prevention through economic opportunities and community support.
Boosting Police Morale and Community Trust
Meanwhile, Christina Fugazi, Patti’s main rival and former Stockton city council member prioritizes police retention and recruitment. She stresses the importance of supporting officers and addressing the low retention rates caused by officers leaving the force. Fugazi’s strategy includes auditing funds for public safety and fostering better community-police relationships.
A Regional Breakdown of Crime Rates Across the State
On the flip side, the Simmrin Law Group’s report highlights that the safest counties in California are located in the greater Sacramento region. Placer County with the lowest rate of violent crimes and El Dorado County ranking just above stand in sharp contrast to the higher crime rates observed in San Joaquin County and its neighboring areas. This geographical disparity underscores the varied safety dynamics across California’s counties.
READ ALSO: 27.6% Drop In Violent Crime: Dallas Sees Significant Reduction In Murders And Assaults
