Billings Police report rising crime trends amid strategic public safety initiatives

The Billings City Council Work Session on April 7, 2025, highlighted significant trends in crime statistics, revealing a complex landscape of public safety challenges and improvements. The meeting focused on a comprehensive report from the police department, which detailed a notable increase in aggravated assaults, particularly those involving weapons, alongside a concerning rise in assaults on police officers.

The police report indicated a 15% increase in aggravated assaults compared to the previous year, with a staggering 69% rise in criminal endangerment cases. This uptick has raised questions about the underlying causes, as officers noted that while overall calls for service have decreased, the severity of incidents has escalated. "We're holding people accountable for putting others in danger more than we have seen before," a police representative stated, emphasizing the department's commitment to addressing these issues.

In contrast, the report also showcased positive developments, particularly in domestic violence cases. There was a 21% decrease in physical assaults related to partner family member assaults (PFMA), attributed to targeted training and resources aimed at supporting victims. The introduction of a forensic strangulation exam service has been a key factor in this progress, allowing for better documentation and support for victims.

While property crimes showed a mixed picture—with burglaries up by 5% but theft offenses down—fraud cases surged by 27%, highlighting the growing threat of scams in the community. The police department is actively working to combat these trends through community engagement and targeted enforcement strategies.

Traffic safety remains a critical concern, with driving under the influence incidents continuing to pose a significant risk. The report noted four fatalities linked to impaired driving, prompting ongoing educational and enforcement efforts.

Overall, the meeting underscored the police department's dual focus on addressing rising violent crime while also celebrating reductions in domestic violence and property crime. As the city continues to grow, the challenges of public safety will require ongoing collaboration between law enforcement and the community.