Maryland reports 16.6% rise in crime rates with increase in property offenses

The PST Committee Session held on February 14, 2025, focused on a comprehensive performance analysis of crime and traffic safety in Maryland. The meeting began with a detailed discussion of crime rates, highlighting that the department is responsible for collecting and compiling crime data into the state's uniform crime report.

According to the data presented, Maryland experienced a significant increase in part 1 offenses, with a reported 2,414 offenses per 100,000 people in 2023, marking a 16.6% rise from 2022. This increase was primarily attributed to a surge in property crimes, which saw a 19.7% rise. Notably, while the overall murder rate in Maryland fell by 20% between 2021 and 2023, it remained higher than the national average over the past decade, although both rates have declined since 2021.

The session also addressed traffic safety, revealing concerning trends. Despite a 15.9% decrease in vehicle miles traveled during 2020, traffic fatalities rose by 7.1%. By 2023, the number of fatalities reached 621, an 8.7% increase from the previous year. The Maryland Department of Transportation estimates a potential decrease in fatalities for 2024, projecting 572 deaths, which would represent a 7.9% decline from 2023.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the issue of impaired driving. The rate of impairment-related fatal collisions returned to pre-pandemic levels in 2023, despite a notable decrease in DUI arrests, which fell by 23% from 2019 levels. The average number of DUI arrests from 2022 to 2024 remained below the 2020 figures.

In conclusion, the PST Committee's session underscored the ongoing challenges Maryland faces regarding crime and traffic safety, with a clear need for continued monitoring and strategic interventions to address these issues effectively. The committee plans to follow up on these discussions in future meetings to ensure progress and accountability.