How does Texas rank when it comes to violent crimes?

Violent crimes are those that intentionally cause or can cause bodily harm to another person. They are considered the worst possible crimes and include murder and rape. According to the Amarillo Globe-News, crime figures also include robbery under violent crimes but not burglary. It can be confusing, but in general, violent crimes are the worst crimes that harm people directly and not property. It is not good news when you look into the violent crime rate in Texas.

Based on figures from the FBI, Texas has a fast-growing violent crime rate. It increased by 5.3 percent in 2016 from 2015. When compared with the nation’s overall rates, Texas was in bad shape. The nation’s growth in violent crime was only at 3.2 percent. Furthermore, per 100,000 people, the nation had 397 violent crimes reported, but Texas had 434.

Of course, comparing year to year often does not provide you with the big picture. In fact, the state is actually seeing a lower crime rate than it did 10 years ago when the rate was 16 percent higher. Also, property crimes have been on a downward trajectory.

Any rise in crime rates is concerning, though. It is especially scary when violent crimes are what is on the rise. However, you probably will not notice the crime rate increase in your personal life. It does not hurt to be more vigilant, but you do not have to move from Texas out of fear that it is becoming a crime-ridden locale. This information is for educational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.

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