Brookings, SD Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Brookings, SD

The Brookings crime rates are 36% lower than the national average. There are two main categories of crime - violent crime and property crime. Violent crime consists of murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft and vehicle theft. There were a total of 42 violent crimes in Brookings (177 per 100,000 people), which is 52.1% lower than the national average and there were a total of 311 property crimes (1311 per 100,000 residents) which is 32.9% lower than average.

During the most recently reported crime year, Brookings experienced a total of 0 reported murders. This statistic paints it as a beacon of security when it comes to severe violent crimes. Such an achievement not only instills a profound sense of security for its residents but also sets a high standard for other communities striving to create similarly secure environments. It underscores the area as a place where safety is a top priority, enhancing its appeal as a desirable location to live and thrive.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Brookings?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Brookings residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 10 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 80% of Brookings residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 20% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Brookings a Safe Place to Live?

To get a feel for the safety of living in Brookings, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Brookings presents a total crime rate that is 36% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Brookings experiences an average of 0.97 daily crimes, comprising 0.12 violent incidents and 0.85 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.

Has Crime in Brookings Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime rates in Brookings has increased by 80.1% in the last reported crime report. Comparing crime rates from one year to another offers some insight into whether or not Brookings is becoming a safer or more dangerous place to live. Crime rates are categorized by violent and property crime. Year-over-year violent crime has increased by 55.6%, while property crime has increased by 84%. This analysis equips individuals with crucial information for making informed decisions about living in Brookings.

Potential Causes for Crime in Brookings

High population density areas are often large urban centers with diverse economic opportunities. These areas can exacerbate income inequality, with pockets of poverty existing alongside affluence. Areas with economic disparities may experience higher property crimes and, in some cases, violent crimes. On the other hand, areas with low population density tend to see lower Brookings crime rates. The population density in Brookings is 1799.3 people per square mile, while the national average is 90.6 people per square mile.

In Brookings, the cost of living is 11.72% lower than the national average. A substantial cost of living can burden residents, particularly those with constrained financial means. When individuals contend with steep housing expenses, grocery bills, utility costs, healthcare and essential needs that strain their budgets, they may turn to criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities characterized by a more affordable cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, which could potentially lead to decreased crime rates.

The effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing initiatives can influence crime rates. A strong and collaborative relationship between the police and the community can deter criminal activity and improve safety. In Brookings, there are 1.91 police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 3.25. The effectiveness of law enforcement often depends on community policing strategies that emphasize building trust and cooperation between the police and the community. It's not just about the number of officers but also how they engage with the community.

Brookings crime map