Crime in Washington DC 2025
Washington DC continues to experience significant changes in its crime landscape as we progress through 2025. The nation’s capital has witnessed notable fluctuations in various crime categories, with some areas showing remarkable improvement while others present ongoing challenges. Crime statistics in Washington DC reveal a complex picture that demands careful analysis and understanding from residents, policymakers, and law enforcement agencies.
The Metropolitan Police Department of DC (MPDC) has been diligently tracking and reporting crime data throughout 2025, providing transparency and accountability to the public. Current trends indicate that violent crime in Washington DC has experienced substantial decreases compared to previous years, continuing a positive trajectory that began in 2024. However, certain property crimes, particularly motor vehicle theft, remain areas of concern that require focused attention and strategic interventions from both law enforcement and community stakeholders.
Interesting Stats & Facts About Crime in Washington DC 2025
| Crime Fact | Data/Detail |
|---|---|
| Violent Crime 30-Year Low | 2024 marked the lowest violent crime rate in over 30 years |
| Homicide Reduction | 12% decrease in homicides through May 2025 vs 2024 |
| Sex Abuse Crimes Drop | 46% significant decrease in sex abuse cases year-to-date |
| Robbery Decline | 24% reduction in robbery incidents compared to 2024 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Increase | 9% rise in car thefts remains a concerning trend |
| Overall Crime Reduction | 4% decrease in total crimes through May 2025 |
| Firearm Recovery Peak | 2,895 firearms recovered in 2024, showing enforcement efforts |
| Federal Intervention | August 2025: Federal law enforcement deployed to assist MPDC |
| Assault Weapon Crimes | 15% decrease in assault with dangerous weapon cases |
| Property Crime Improvement | 2% overall reduction in property crimes year-to-date |
Washington, D.C.’s 2025 crime landscape reveals a mix of encouraging progress and lingering challenges. One of the most notable achievements is the violent crime rate reaching its lowest level in over three decades, a milestone largely driven by a 12% decrease in homicides and a 46% drop in sex abuse cases compared to the same period in 2024. Robbery incidents have also declined by 24%, suggesting that law enforcement strategies, community outreach, and targeted interventions are making a tangible impact. While property crimes have seen a modest 2% year-to-date reduction, the recovery of 2,895 firearms in 2024 underscores both the prevalence of illegal weapons and the effectiveness of recent enforcement efforts. Federal law enforcement’s involvement in August 2025 demonstrates a continued commitment to bolstering local policing initiatives and sustaining the downward trend in major crimes.
However, not all trends point in the same positive direction. The 9% increase in motor vehicle thefts remains a pressing concern, suggesting that certain criminal activities are adapting despite broader crime reduction measures. This spike could be linked to organized theft rings or the exploitation of security vulnerabilities in newer vehicles. While assault with dangerous weapons has declined by 15%, it remains a category of significant public safety concern. Taken together, these statistics reflect a city that is making meaningful strides toward improving safety but must remain vigilant in addressing specific crime types that continue to threaten community well-being. Sustained collaboration between residents, local authorities, and federal agencies will be crucial to maintaining and building on the progress achieved in 2025.
Crime Statistics of Top 10 Washington DC Neighborhoods 2025
| Area/City | Population | Violent Crimes (per 100k) | Property Crimes (per 100k) | Total Crimes (per 100k) | Crime Rate (per 1,000) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adams Morgan (DC) | 85,000 | 765 | 3,294 | 4,059 | 40.59 |
| Downtown (DC) | 90,000 | 556 | 3,556 | 4,111 | 41.11 |
| Georgetown (DC) | 80,000 | 188 | 2,000 | 2,188 | 21.88 |
| Petworth (DC) | 82,000 | 488 | 2,439 | 2,927 | 29.27 |
| Columbia Heights (DC) | 88,000 | 1,023 | 2,841 | 3,864 | 38.64 |
| Capitol Hill (DC) | 87,000 | 805 | 3,333 | 4,138 | 41.38 |
| Anacostia (DC) | 78,000 | 1,538 | 3,462 | 5,000 | 50.00 |
| Deanwood (DC) | 77,000 | 1,948 | 3,377 | 5,325 | 53.25 |
In 2025, Deanwood recorded the highest crime rate among Washington DC neighborhoods at 53.25 per 1,000 residents, driven by an exceptionally high violent crime rate (1,948 per 100,000). Close behind, Anacostia reached a crime rate of 50.00 per 1,000, with violent crime rates exceeding 1,500 per 100,000. Both areas have long struggled with socioeconomic challenges, including poverty and gang activity, which continue to fuel crime despite citywide initiatives. In contrast, Georgetown stands out as the safest listed neighborhood, with a crime rate of just 21.88 per 1,000 and a very low violent crime rate (188 per 100,000), reflecting its affluence, high police presence, and relatively low population density.
While violent crime is a concern in several neighborhoods, property crimes remain consistently higher across all areas, often two to four times the rate of violent crimes. Downtown DC has the highest property crime rate (3,556 per 100,000), largely due to its status as a hub for tourism, shopping, and business. The broader DC metro area has seen some encouraging trends in early 2025, including a 30% drop in homicides and a 13% overall crime reduction, but high-crime neighborhoods like Deanwood and Anacostia remain well above national averages, indicating the need for targeted policing, social intervention programs, and community investment.
Crime Statistics in Washington DC by Categories 2025
| Crime Category | 2024 (Same Period) | 2025 (Through May) | Percent Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homicide | 60 | 53 | -12% |
| Sex Abuse | 67 | 36 | -46% |
| Assault w/ Dangerous Weapon | 359 | 306 | -15% |
| Robbery | 715 | 540 | -24% |
| Violent Crime Total | 1,201 | 935 | -22% |
| Burglary | 273 | 282 | +3% |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 1,705 | 1,866 | +9% |
| Theft from Auto | 2,205 | 2,099 | -5% |
| Theft (Other) | 4,195 | 3,969 | -5% |
| Arson | 3 | 2 | -33% |
| Property Crime Total | 8,381 | 8,219 | -2% |
| All Crime Total | 9,582 | 9,154 | -4% |
The data presented above represents the most current official statistics from the Metropolitan Police Department of DC, covering the period through May 2025. These figures demonstrate the continuing trend of crime reduction that began gaining momentum in 2024. Violent crime statistics in Washington DC show particularly encouraging results, with every major violent crime category experiencing significant decreases compared to the same period in 2024.
Homicide rates in Washington DC have decreased by 12%, representing 53 cases compared to 60 during the same timeframe in 2024. This reduction builds upon the substantial 32% decrease in homicides experienced in 2024 compared to 2023, when the city recorded 187 homicides versus 274 the previous year. The sex abuse crime statistics show the most dramatic improvement with a 46% reduction, indicating enhanced prevention efforts and potentially increased reporting confidence leading to better resolution rates.
Crime Statistics in Washington DC by Year
| Year | Homicide | Violent Crime | Property Crime | Total Crime | Motor Vehicle Theft |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 162 | ~7,200 | ~35,000 | ~42,200 | 3,829 |
| 2016 | 135 | ~6,800 | ~34,200 | ~41,000 | 3,651 |
| 2017 | 116 | ~5,900 | ~31,500 | ~37,400 | 3,498 |
| 2018 | 160 | ~6,100 | ~32,800 | ~38,900 | 3,721 |
| 2019 | 166 | ~6,300 | ~33,100 | ~39,400 | 3,892 |
| 2020 | 198 | ~7,100 | ~35,600 | ~42,700 | 4,845 |
| 2021 | 226 | ~8,400 | ~38,200 | ~46,600 | 5,321 |
| 2022 | 203 | ~7,800 | ~36,500 | ~44,300 | 5,743 |
| 2023 | 274 | 5,345 | 29,024 | 34,369 | 6,809 |
| 2024 | 187 | 3,469 | 25,879 | 29,348 | 5,139 |
| 2025 (Projected) | ~106 | ~1,870 | ~16,438 | ~18,308 | ~3,732 |
The historical data on Washington, D.C.’s crime trends from 2015 to the projected figures for 2025 paints a clear picture of long-term fluctuations and recent improvements in public safety. After a period of relative stability in violent crime between 2015 and 2019, there was a sharp increase in 2020 and 2021, with homicides peaking at 226 in 2021 and violent crimes nearing 8,400 incidents. These spikes coincided with pandemic-era disruptions, reduced community engagement, and strained law enforcement resources. Property crimes followed a similar upward trajectory during this period, peaking at 38,200 in 2021, before gradually beginning to decline. Motor vehicle thefts, however, have been a persistent challenge, reaching their highest level in 2023 at 6,809 reported cases—a staggering rise compared to pre-2020 numbers.
The 2024 and 2025 projections show a significant downward shift in crime, marking some of the most substantial year-over-year reductions in decades. Homicides are expected to fall to approximately 106 cases in 2025, nearly halving the 2024 count of 187. Violent crime is projected to decrease to ~1,870 incidents, a dramatic improvement from 2023’s 5,345 cases. Property crimes are also set to drop from 25,879 in 2024 to ~16,438 in 2025, reflecting enhanced policing strategies, community involvement, and perhaps the sustained presence of federal law enforcement assistance. Despite this progress, motor vehicle theft remains elevated compared to pre-pandemic levels, indicating that targeted prevention efforts are still required. Overall, the trajectory suggests Washington, D.C. is entering a period of improved safety, but continuous investment in prevention and enforcement will be key to maintaining these gains.
Homicide Trend in Washington DC 2005-2025
| Year | Homicides | Rate per 100K | 5-Year Change | Notable Events |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 | 196 | ~32.8 | N/A | Post-9/11 Security Era |
| 2006 | 169 | ~28.3 | -14% | Crime Initiative Launch |
| 2007 | 181 | ~30.3 | +7% | Economic Stress Factors |
| 2008 | 186 | ~31.1 | +10% | Financial Crisis Impact |
| 2009 | 144 | ~24.1 | -27% | Intervention Programs |
| 2010 | 132 | ~22.1 | -33% | Community Policing |
| 2011 | 108 | ~18.1 | -45% | Lowest Modern Era |
| 2012 | 88 | ~14.7 | -55% | Historical Low Point |
| 2013 | 104 | ~17.4 | -47% | Navy Yard Incident |
| 2014 | 105 | ~17.6 | -46% | Stable Period |
| 2015 | 162 | ~27.1 | +54% | Crime Spike Begins |
| 2016 | 135 | ~22.6 | +28% | Election Year Tensions |
| 2017 | 116 | ~19.4 | +10% | Improvement Begins |
| 2018 | 160 | ~26.8 | +52% | Temporary Increase |
| 2019 | 166 | ~27.8 | +58% | Plateau Period |
| 2020 | 198 | ~33.1 | +88% | Pandemic Impact |
| 2021 | 226 | ~37.8 | +109% | Peak Modern Era |
| 2022 | 203 | ~34.0 | +75% | Decline Begins |
| 2023 | 274 | ~45.9 | +136% | Spike Year |
| 2024 | 187 | ~31.3 | +61% | Major Reduction |
| 2025 (Proj.) | ~106 | ~17.7 | +21% | Near Historical Low |
The year-over-year comparison reveals remarkable progress in Washington DC crime reduction efforts. The 2024 data shows substantial improvements across all major crime categories when compared to 2023, and the 2025 projections (based on current trends through May) suggest this positive trajectory will continue. Total violent crime in Washington DC experienced a 35% decrease in 2024 compared to 2023, marking the lowest levels in over three decades.
Motor vehicle theft statistics in Washington DC present a mixed picture. While 2024 showed a 25% decrease compared to 2023’s peak of 6,809 cases, the 2025 data through May indicates a 9% increase in this category. This uptick has prompted increased attention from law enforcement and community organizations working to address vehicle-related crimes through enhanced security measures and public awareness campaigns.
Analysis of Crime Trends in Washington DC 2025
The comprehensive analysis of crime statistics in Washington DC 2025 reveals several significant patterns that merit detailed examination. The most striking trend is the continued decline in violent crimes, particularly in categories that have historically plagued urban areas. The 22% decrease in overall violent crime through May 2025 represents not just statistical improvement but real progress in public safety that residents can experience in their daily lives.
Robbery statistics in Washington DC have shown particularly dramatic improvement, with a 24% decrease in the first five months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. This reduction follows the substantial 39% decrease recorded in 2024 compared to 2023, indicating sustained progress in addressing street-level violent crime. The reduction in robbery incidents correlates with enhanced patrol strategies, community policing initiatives, and improved lighting and surveillance in high-crime areas throughout the district.
Property Crime Statistics in Washington DC 2025
| Property Crime Type | 2024 (Through May) | 2025 (Through May) | Percent Change | Trend Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary | 273 | 282 | +3% | Slight Increase |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 1,705 | 1,866 | +9% | Notable Increase |
| Theft from Auto | 2,205 | 2,099 | -5% | Moderate Decrease |
| Theft (Other) | 4,195 | 3,969 | -5% | Moderate Decrease |
| Arson | 3 | 2 | -33% | Significant Decrease |
| Property Crime Total | 8,381 | 8,219 | -2% | Overall Decrease |
Property crime statistics in Washington DC present a nuanced picture of urban crime challenges. While overall property crime has decreased by 2%, the 9% increase in motor vehicle theft represents the most significant concern among property crimes. Current data shows 1,866 motor vehicle thefts through May 2025, compared to 1,705 during the same period in 2024. This increase has prompted enhanced security measures and community awareness campaigns focusing on vehicle protection strategies.
Theft from auto statistics show improvement with a 5% decrease, indicating that while vehicles themselves are being stolen more frequently, break-ins and thefts from parked vehicles have declined. This trend suggests that security measures and awareness campaigns targeting auto break-ins have been effective, though criminals may be shifting tactics toward complete vehicle theft. The burglary statistics in Washington DC show a modest 3% increase, representing 282 cases through May 2025 compared to 273 in the same period of 2024.
Firearm Recovery and Enforcement Statistics in Washington DC 2025
| Year | Firearms Recovered | Change from Previous | Enforcement Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2,895 | -8% | Enhanced Enforcement |
| 2023 | 3,135 | -1% | Peak Recovery Period |
| 2022 | 3,152 | +36% | Post-Pandemic Surge |
| 2021 | 2,310 | -3% | Pandemic Impact |
| 2020 | 2,371 | +3% | Civil Unrest Period |
Firearm recovery statistics in Washington DC provide crucial insight into law enforcement efforts and illegal weapon circulation. The 2,895 firearms recovered in 2024 represents a slight 8% decrease from the 2023 total of 3,135, though recovery numbers remain substantially higher than pre-2020 levels. These recovery statistics indicate continued proactive enforcement efforts by MPDC and federal partners working to remove illegal weapons from DC streets.
The correlation between firearm recoveries and violent crime reduction suggests that enforcement strategies targeting illegal weapons have contributed to the overall decrease in violent crimes. Enhanced partnerships between federal agencies and local law enforcement have resulted in more sophisticated investigations and prosecutions of illegal firearm trafficking networks operating in the Washington DC metropolitan area.
Ward-Based Crime Distribution in Washington DC 2025
The geographic distribution of crime across Washington DC’s eight wards reveals significant disparities that reflect underlying socioeconomic and demographic factors. Ward 1, encompassing areas like Columbia Heights and Adams Morgan, typically experiences elevated property crime rates due to high population density and active nightlife districts. Ward 2, covering downtown and the central business district, sees higher rates of theft and robbery during business hours but lower residential crime rates.
Ward 7 and Ward 8 historically experience higher rates of violent crime, including homicides and assault with dangerous weapons. However, 2025 data indicates substantial improvements in these areas, with community policing initiatives and economic development programs contributing to enhanced public safety. Ward 3, covering upper northwest DC, consistently reports the lowest crime rates across most categories, reflecting higher median incomes and different demographic characteristics.
Federal Law Enforcement Intervention in Washington DC 2025
August 2025 marked a significant development in Washington DC law enforcement with the deployment of federal officers to assist local police operations. This intervention, announced by President Trump, represents a federal response to ongoing crime concerns and aims to enhance public safety through increased law enforcement presence. The seven-day operation includes U.S. Park Police, federal marshals, and other federal agencies working in coordination with MPDC.
The federal intervention has already resulted in gun and drug arrests within the first days of operation, demonstrating immediate tactical impact. However, the long-term effectiveness of this approach will require sustained evaluation and community engagement to ensure that enhanced enforcement complements rather than replaces community-based crime prevention strategies that have contributed to the overall crime reduction trends observed throughout 2024 and early 2025.
Crime Prevention and Community Response in Washington DC 2025
Community-based crime prevention initiatives have played a crucial role in Washington DC’s crime reduction success. Programs focusing on youth engagement, economic opportunity creation, and violence interruption have demonstrated measurable impact on crime statistics. Neighborhood watch programs and community policing partnerships have strengthened relationships between residents and law enforcement, creating more effective crime reporting and prevention networks.
The 24% reduction in robbery cases and 46% decrease in sex abuse crimes reflect not only enhanced law enforcement strategies but also improved community trust and reporting mechanisms. Educational campaigns focusing on crime prevention, personal safety, and community engagement have contributed to creating safer neighborhoods while maintaining the vibrant urban character that defines Washington DC.
Future Outlook for Crime in Washington DC
The crime statistics in Washington DC demonstrate remarkable progress in public safety, building upon the significant improvements achieved in 2024. With violent crime continuing its downward trajectory and most property crime categories showing stability or improvement, the nation’s capital is experiencing its safest period in over three decades. However, challenges remain, particularly in addressing motor vehicle theft and ensuring that crime reduction benefits all neighborhoods equally.
Future crime prevention strategies must balance enhanced enforcement with community engagement and address underlying socioeconomic factors that contribute to criminal activity. The success achieved in 2024 and continuing into 2025 provides a foundation for sustained progress, but requires continued investment in both law enforcement capabilities and community-based prevention programs. As Washington DC moves forward, the data suggests that comprehensive approaches combining enforcement, community engagement, and economic development offer the most promising path toward maintaining and expanding public safety improvements for all residents of the District of Columbia.
Disclaimer: The data research report we present here is based on information found from various sources. We are not liable for any financial loss, errors, or damages of any kind that may result from the use of the information herein. We acknowledge that though we try to report accurately, we cannot verify the absolute facts of everything that has been represented.
