The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection released its 2023 “Crime in Connecticut” annual report, providing comprehensive crime statistics for the state, including detailed data for individual municipalities such as Greenwich and New Canaan.
Statewide Overview
In 2023, Connecticut experienced a 3.8% decrease in crimes against persons, including offenses like homicide and assault. Conversely, property crimes, encompassing burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft, rose by 11%. Notably, motor vehicle thefts increased by 48.2%, with 10,681 incidents reported, up from 7,209 in 2022.
Greenwich Crime Statistics
Greenwich reported a total of 701 crimes in 2023, translating to an overall crime rate of 11 per 1,000 residents. This rate is near the national average for cities and towns of all sizes in the United States. The violent crime rate in Greenwich is notably low, with only 14 incidents reported, resulting in a rate of 0.22 per 1,000 residents. Property crimes were more prevalent, with 687 incidents, equating to a rate of 10.80 per 1,000 residents.
New Canaan Crime Statistics
New Canaan reported a total of 174 crimes in 2023, resulting in an overall crime rate of 8 per 1,000 residents. This rate is slightly below the national average. The town reported only one violent crime, a rape, leading to a violent crime rate of 0.05 per 1,000 residents. Property crimes were more common, with 173 incidents, equating to a rate of 8.33 per 1,000 residents.
Comparative Analysis
When comparing the two towns, New Canaan exhibits a lower overall crime rate (8 per 1,000 residents) compared to Greenwich (11 per 1,000 residents). Both towns have exceptionally low violent crime rates, with New Canaan reporting a single incident and Greenwich reporting 14 incidents. In terms of property crimes, New Canaan’s rate is also lower (8.33 per 1,000 residents) than Greenwich’s (10.80 per 1,000 residents).
Implications for Connecticut
The statewide increase in property crimes, particularly motor vehicle thefts, suggests a need for enhanced preventive measures and community awareness programs. The decline in violent crimes is a positive development, indicating effective law enforcement strategies and community engagement.
Implications for Greenwich
For Greenwich, the relatively low violent crime rate is a positive indicator of public safety. However, the higher rate of property crimes, especially compared to New Canaan, suggests a need for targeted initiatives to address theft and burglary. Implementing community policing strategies and public awareness campaigns could be beneficial.
Implications for New Canaan
New Canaan’s low crime rates reflect a safe community environment. Maintaining these low rates will require continued vigilance and proactive measures to prevent both violent and property crimes. Community engagement and collaboration with law enforcement will be crucial in sustaining this safety record.
The annual report itself can be found here Annual Crime Report
