Most Common Crime in Virginia: Latest Crime Data

Virginia, known for its rich history and scenic landscapes, has seen its fair share of crime trends evolve over the years. From bustling cities like Richmond and Virginia Beach to the more rural areas, the state's crime rates vary significantly by region. Understanding the most common crimes in Virginia is key to grasping how law enforcement and communities are tackling safety challenges.

Overview of Crime Rates in Virginia

As of 2023, Virginia is regarded as one of the safer states in the U.S. in terms of crime rates. Below is a breakdown of crime statistics, including both violent and property crime rates.

Violent Crime Rates (per 100,000 residents)

Virginia's violent crime rate is significantly lower than the national average. The most common violent crime is aggravated assault, but even that rate remains below the national figure.

Property Crime Rates (per 100,000 residents)

Property crime in Virginia is also lower than the national average, with larceny/theft being the most frequent, followed by burglary.

Trends

Crime Decline: Virginia has experienced a gradual decrease in overall crime rates over the past decade, particularly in violent crime.
Urban vs. Rural: Urban areas, such as Richmond and Norfolk, tend to have higher crime rates than rural areas, but even these cities have seen reductions in crime over the last few years.

Sources:

What Is The Most Common Crime in Virginia?

The most common crime in Virginia is larceny/theft. This type of crime falls under property crime and typically involves the unlawful taking of someone’s property without the use of force or violence. In 2023, Virginia's larceny/theft rate was around 1,016.8 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is significantly higher than other types of crimes such as burglary or motor vehicle theft.

Larceny/theft accounts for a large portion of overall property crimes, driven by factors like shoplifting, vehicle break-ins, and other forms of non-violent theft.

Who Has The Highest Crime Rate in Virginia?

In Virginia, the cities with the highest crime rates, particularly in terms of violent and property crimes, are:

1. Norfolk

Violent Crime Rate: Norfolk typically has one of the highest violent crime rates in the state, with aggravated assaults, robberies, and homicides being more frequent than in other areas.
Property Crime Rate: Larceny, burglary, and motor vehicle theft are also common, contributing to the city's overall crime rate.

2. Richmond

Violent Crime Rate: Richmond, the state capital, has a relatively high violent crime rate, particularly for aggravated assaults and robberies.
Property Crime Rate: Richmond also sees high rates of property crime, including thefts and burglaries.

3. Newport News

Violent Crime Rate: Newport News reports high levels of violent crime, similar to Norfolk and Richmond, with robberies and assaults being prevalent.
Property Crime Rate: Property crimes, such as larceny and vehicle theft, are also common in the area.

Essential Safety Tips for Staying Safe in Virginia

1. Secure Your Home

Install a Home Security System: Use security cameras, alarms, or smart systems like Kangaroo Home Security to monitor your home. This deters burglars and alerts you to suspicious activity.
Lock Doors and Windows: Always keep your doors and windows locked, especially at night or when you're away.
Use Outdoor Lighting: Install motion-sensor lights around your property to deter potential intruders.

2. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

Avoid Distracted Walking: Stay off your phone while walking in public areas, especially at night, to maintain situational awareness.
Park in Well-Lit Areas: When going to stores or events, park in well-lit, populated areas to reduce the risk of vehicle theft or assault.
Trust Your Instincts: If you feel unsafe in any situation, leave immediately or seek help.

3. Practice Safe Online Habits

Use Strong Passwords: Protect your online accounts with strong, unique passwords to avoid identity theft or fraud.
Monitor Online Purchases: Keep track of your packages using delivery tracking services. Consider using a video doorbell camera to prevent porch piracy.

4. Vehicle Safety

Lock Your Car: Always lock your car and close the windows, even when parked at home.
Do Not Leave Valuables in Sight: Keep valuables out of sight to avoid car break-ins.
Use a Steering Wheel Lock: In high-crime areas, consider using a steering wheel lock as an extra layer of protection against car theft.

5. Personal Safety in Public Spaces

Stay in Well-Populated Areas: When walking or jogging, stay in areas that are busy and well-lit, particularly at night.
Avoid Isolated ATMs: Use ATMs in busy, well-lit locations, preferably during the day.
Carry Self-Defense Tools: Consider carrying pepper spray, a personal alarm, or other legal self-defense tools.

Kangaroo Home Security: Smart Solutions for Enhanced Safety in Virginia

Get Kangaroo

Kangaroo Home Security offers affordable, easy-to-use security systems that can significantly improve safety for Virginia residents. With a range of products designed to protect your home and deter crime, Kangaroo is an excellent option for homeowners and renters alike.

Key Features of Kangaroo Home Security:

Video Doorbell: Monitor your front door with a smart video doorbell, providing real-time alerts and recording any activity. This is especially useful for preventing porch piracy, which is a growing concern in many neighborhoods.
Indoor and Outdoor Cameras: Kangaroo’s cameras allow you to keep an eye on both the inside and outside of your home. With features like night vision and motion detection, these cameras help you stay informed of any suspicious activity.
Motion + Entry Sensors: These sensors alert you whenever doors or windows are opened unexpectedly, giving you peace of mind whether you're at home or away.
Water + Climate Sensors: Protect your home from environmental hazards with Kangaroo’s climate sensors, which can detect sudden temperature changes, helping prevent issues like frozen pipes.

How Kangaroo Enhances Safety in Virginia:

Learn more

If you use and subscribe to Kangaroo's Camera Protect Plan or Complete Protect Plan, you'll receive comprehensive coverage for your home security needs. The Camera Protect Plan includes features such as 30-day cloud storage for recorded video footage, enabling you to review and save important events. This includes the $250 Theft + Damage Reimbursement.
The Complete Protect Plan expands on these benefits by providing additional services like professional monitoring, which connects you to a 24/7 security team that can alert authorities in case of an emergency. This includes a $1000 Theft + Damage Reimbursement.
We also help with your insurance discounts, making it a valuable investment for your overall home protection. See Dory for more details.

Kangaroo Home Security offers a smart, budget-friendly way for Virginia residents to protect their homes and take control of their safety.

Theft Report Data Reduction by Kangaroo Users

The reduction in reported theft cases between 2021 and 2024 underscores the effectiveness of the Kangaroo Security System. By delivering timely alerts and dependable monitoring, Kangaroo has notably decreased the occurrence of theft-related incidents, showcasing its vital contribution to improving home security and safeguarding properties.

Why Kangaroo Home Security Is the Top Choice for Peace of Mind

Kangaroo Home Security has quickly become a favorite among homeowners and renters alike, offering stylish, affordable solutions to enhance safety. With a range of products designed to provide peace of mind, customers have shared their positive experiences. Here’s a glimpse into what users are saying about Kangaroo’s innovative security systems and why they recommend them for protecting your home.

Highly Recommended!
"We love our Kangaroo motion sensor! It has a clean design, easy app download, and connected effortlessly. After a break-in, this gives me peace of mind. I can’t wait to buy more Kangaroo products!"
— Todd S., October 2023, Amazon
Affordable and Effective
"I bought five motion detectors, and they worked right out of the box. They alert us if someone enters while we're away. We handled a situation ourselves without monthly fees. Very satisfied!"
— Dan, January 2022, Amazon Verified Purchase
Great Value!
"Easy installation and impressive picture quality! It captures movement well, including my daughter arriving home. Affordable and worth it!"
— Monie S., Amazon Verified Purchase
Amazing!
"Installation was simple, and it detected motion immediately. I got instant notifications. This will help prevent package theft!"
— Reejaunte S., Amazon Verified Purchase
Increased Security for Apartments
"Kangaroo has made me feel secure living alone. No drilling needed for installation—perfect for apartments!"
— Janee H., Kangaroo PlayStore Review

Virginia boasts a relatively low crime rate compared to the national average, making it one of the safer states in the U.S. However, understanding regional variations and the most common types of crime is crucial for residents. Larceny and theft remain prevalent, particularly in urban areas like Norfolk and Richmond. By implementing essential safety tips, such as securing homes with reliable systems like Kangaroo Home Security, staying aware of surroundings, and practicing safe online habits, Virginians can further enhance their safety.

Q&A on Crime in Virginia

The most common crime in Virginia is larceny/theft. In 2023, the larceny/theft rate was approximately 1,016.8 incidents per 100,000 residents, making it the leading property crime in the state.
Currently, larceny/theft remains the most prevalent crime across the United States, mirroring trends observed in Virginia. This crime typically involves the unlawful taking of someone’s property without the use of force or violence.
Yes, Virginia is generally considered a safe place to live. As of 2023, the state has lower crime rates than the national average, particularly in violent crime categories. Communities across Virginia are actively working to maintain safety and reduce crime further.
irginia ranks as one of the safer states in the U.S. regarding crime rates. The overall violent crime rate is significantly lower than the national average, with continued efforts to enhance community safety contributing to this positive ranking.