Selma, CA Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Selma, CA

Crime is typically categorized into two main types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. Based on the most recent report, the Selma crime rate is higher than the national average by 35.2%. Specifically, there were 144 violent crimes in Selma, equivalent to 585 per 100,000 individuals, higher than the national average by 58.3%. Furthermore, Selma recorded 629 property crimes, amounting to 2557 per 100,000 residents, which was higher than the average by 30.9%.

During the most recently reported crime year, Selma 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.

Vehicle thefts across all of America are on the rise and Selma has one of the highest vehicle theft rates in the country. In the most recent crime report, Selma reported 102 vehicle thefts, which equates to 415 stolen vehicles per 100,000 people. This falls in the bottom 10% of all cities, meaning that 90% of cities have better vehicle theft rates. The chance of having your vehicle stolen in Selma is 1 in 242.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Selma?

AreaVibes surveyed 13 local residents in Selma to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 23% of people answered that there was very little crime in Selma and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 77% of people responded that there was far too much crime and they would be hesitant to walk the streets alone at night. Keep in mind that the opinions of residents may vary depending on which area they live in.

Is Selma a Safe Place to Live?

Determining whether Selma is a place to live may not always yield a simple answer, given the city's varying safety levels across different areas. Nonetheless, comprehending the city's overall crime rate can be a valuable asset. In broad terms, Selma has an overall crime rate that is 35% higher than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 2.12 daily occurrences, comprising 0.39 violent crimes and 1.72 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Selma as a potential place to establish residency.

Has Crime in Selma Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Selma. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Selma has increased by 19.5%. Violent crimes have increased by 26.3%, while property crimes have increased by 18%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.

Potential Causes for Crime in Selma

Selma has a poverty rate that stands at 23.3, in contrast to the national average of 15.1. Historically, a direct correlation has been observed between poverty rates and crime stats. Higher poverty rates have led to higher crime rates, while lower poverty rates have led to a reduction in Selma crime rates. Income disparities and heightened poverty levels can serve as catalysts for elevated or reduced criminal activity, as individuals may or may not turn to illicit means to fulfill their basic needs. This could be one of many factors that may influence crime.

In Selma, the cost of living is 6.2% higher 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 impact of law enforcement and community policing efforts plays a crucial role in shaping crime rates in any city. A robust and cooperative bond between law enforcement and the community can serve as a deterrent to criminal activities, enhancing overall safety. In Selma, the ratio of police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents stands at 1.64, differing from the national average of 3.25. Effective law enforcement hinges not solely on officer numbers but also on the manner in which they interact and collaborate with the community. Building trust and cooperation are central tenets of community policing, amplifying its influence on crime prevention.

Selma crime map