Local crime is a significant concern for many Americans. Roughly three-quarters of adults say they get news and information about crime in their communities at least sometimes, more than they do about any other local topic. However, the way in which people consume and react to this news varies widely.
When it comes to consuming local crime news, the most common sources are friends and family members, television and search engines or social media. But some also say they turn to their community police department’s website. In addition to providing official crime statistics, these websites often serve as central hubs fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the safety of the community.
Most of the time, police departments release crime statistics on a citywide or neighborhood basis. Some provide more detailed breakdowns, including a breakout for each type of crime. Others simply summarize crimes in a general way, focusing on the overall trend of crime within the area.
Some police agencies even provide a real-time crime mapping service that allows citizens to track reported crimes as they happen in their neighborhoods. This kind of geo-specific awareness can help with facility security planning as well as enhance community vigilance and a sense of collective responsibility for safety.
When it comes to perceptions of crime, there is a clear link between how much local crime news people take in and their own sense of security. And the more they see, the more concerned they are about how crime in their community may impact them or their families.