Lancaster Sheriff's report reveals crime rates and community impact in early 2023

The Lancaster Criminal Justice Commission meeting on April 9, 2025, highlighted a significant rise in crime rates, particularly in homicide and sexual assault cases, while also showcasing a decrease in other crime categories. Sergeant Almanza from the Lancaster Sheriff's Department reported a 50% increase in homicides, with three cases recorded this year compared to two last year. Forcible sexual assaults surged by 300%, with 20 incidents reported year-to-date, up from five during the same period last year.

Despite these alarming increases, the overall crime rate in Lancaster saw a 10.71% decrease in Part 1 crimes, which include serious offenses like robbery and aggravated assault. Notably, robberies decreased by 8.33%, attributed to proactive policing efforts and the effectiveness of the Landcap team, which has been conducting targeted operations to combat crime.

The meeting also touched on the legal limitations regarding compulsory assistance for individuals in need of services. Officials acknowledged that while there is a growing willingness among the community to accept help, state laws prevent the enforcement of mandatory service acceptance.

The discussion underscored the complexities of crime management in Lancaster, balancing rising violent crime with successful strategies that have led to reductions in other areas. The commission emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between law enforcement and community resources to address these challenges effectively.