In 2023, Chicago has been more than a little frustrated with a concerning surge in crime rates. As the situation worsens, residents are not optimistic about it getting under control in the near future. Recent statistics have revealed alarming trends, with motor vehicle theft witnessing a staggering increase of 232% over the past four years and robberies spiking by 33% in the last month alone, with an average of 32 incidents reported daily. Chicago releases weekly crime reports, and this is what last week’s crime statistics looked like.
Motor Vehicle Theft Sees Alarming 232% Increase
One of the most significant areas of concern is the dramatic rise in motor vehicle theft across Chicago. Over the past four years, instances of car theft have surged by a jaw-dropping 232%. There is a difference between carjacking and motor vehicle theft, though, so carjackings are not listed. For it to be considered a carjacking, some threat of force has to be involved in taking the vehicle from the person who has it. That person could be its owner, a parking valet, or any third party who has it.
Robberies Reach a Disturbing High: A 33% Surge in the Past Month
Another troubling trend is the increase in robberies across Chicago. In the past month, Chicago has witnessed a total of 908 robberies, a 33% surge. That’s an average of 32 robberies per day, making it a matter of concern for anyone who lives, works, or visits the area. The surge in robberies has created an atmosphere of uncertainty and insecurity, leading people to wonder about their safety and the efficacy of the measures taken to address this surge. Or lack of effort.
Police Response Time Increase
There have been multiple cases of long police response times and sometimes no response at all. Recently, on the north side, a couple had to call 911 three times in 20 minutes during an attempted home break-in. The delayed response resulted in the resident shooting the intruder.
The surge in crime rates in Chicago for 2023 has raised considerable alarm bells. With motor vehicle thefts increasing by a shocking 232% in four years and robberies up by 33% in the past month alone, the safety of the city’s residents isn’t looking good.