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California Violent Crime Statistics

As one of the largest states in the whole of the US, California gets its share of benefits. However, there are also some drawbacks to being this large. Among them is a relatively high amount of violent crimes.

California violent crime is any offense that involves the use of harsh violence. This can involve violence-related crimes, such as domestic abuse or assault and battery. However, it also can include a carjacking, theft or robbery that involves the use of force or weapons.

California violent crimes are treated very harshly under state law. With the “three strikes” rule in effect, the cumulative weight of previous convictions can lead to sentencing far more severe than any individual crime. Even your first conviction can land you in prison for years to come.

The violent crime statistics for our state fluctuate continually. However, as was reported earlier this year, the violent crime rate for California dipped yet again in 2009. This means that we have enjoyed three consecutive years of a decrease in California violent crimes.

In 2009, there were 174,459 violent crimes committed in California while the population of the state stood at 36,961,664. The year before, when the population was lower, the number of crimes (185,173) was actually higher. This represents a 6.6 percent drop.

Many of the state's biggest counties were responsible for the recent drops. Violent crimes decreased by 9 percent in Los Angeles this past year. They also decreased by 2.2 percent in San Diego, 3.6 percent in Orange, 4.5 percent in San Bernardino, and a whopping 13.4 percent in Riverside.

"This latest drop in crime," Attorney General Edmund G. Brown Jr. said on the release, "is good news for Californians and reflects well on the dedicated and courageous efforts of peace officers throughout the state. Yet it is no cause for complacency. Crime remains a serious problem in California, and law enforcement officials at every level must redouble their efforts to ensure public safety."

If you or a loved one has been charged with a serious crime in California, there is no time to waste. By calling a Ventura criminal defense attorney at Bamieh & Erickson today, you can ensure that you will get the best possible representation from our experienced team of lawyers. Call our Ventura criminal defense attorneys today at (805) 643.5555.

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