Mesa, AZ: Understanding the City’s Crime Rate and How to Stay Safe
Mesa, AZ is a sprawling city located in Arizona, known for its mix of residential neighborhoods, business districts, and industrial zones. With a population of over 500,000 people, it is the third-largest city in Arizona after Phoenix and Tucson. However, like most urban areas, Mesa, AZ has its share of crime. In this article, we will explore the crime rate in Mesa, AZ and provide tips on how to stay safe and secure.
Types of Crime in Mesa, AZ
Mesa, AZ experiences various types of crimes, which include property crimes and violent crimes. According to the Mesa Police Department’s (MPD) annual report 2019, overall crime numbers decreased by 4.4% from 2018, with 22,218 reports of crime in 2019. Of the total crime reports, 18,567 were property crimes, and 3,651 were violent crimes.
The most common type of property crime in Mesa, AZ is burglary, with 5,030 incidents reported in 2019. The city also experienced 995 vehicle thefts and 12,542 thefts in 2019. The number of vehicle thefts and thefts had declined compared to 2018.
While property crimes have decreased, violent crimes remain an important concern for Mesa, AZ. The city had 352 incidents of aggravated assault and 131 incidents of robbery in 2019. The number of aggravated assaults was higher in 2019 compared to 2018, while the number of robberies had declined. In 2019, there were 16 homicides in Mesa, AZ, a slight decrease from the previous year.
Areas with High Crime Rates
Mesa, AZ has some areas that experience higher crime rates than others. In 2019, the Mesa Police Department identified the Mesa Riverview area, northeast Mesa, and the region around Southern Avenue and Dobson Road as high-crime areas. These areas had a high number of property crimes, including burglaries and vehicle thefts.
To reduce crime in these regions, the Mesa Police Department has implemented several strategies, such as increased patrols, community policing, and partnerships with local businesses and residents.
Ways to Stay Safe in Mesa, AZ
Mesa, AZ is continuously working on reducing crime rates. However, residents and visitors must do their part to stay safe and secured. Here are some tips to help you stay safe in Mesa, AZ:
1. Be aware of your surroundings: Being vigilant and aware of your surroundings is essential, especially when walking or driving through high-crime areas.
2. Use deadbolt: Always lock all doors and windows, even when you’re at home. This is a crucial element in securing your home, office, or vehicle when leaving them in public places.
3. Install a security system: Consider installing a security system in your home or business. It helps deter burglars or alerting law enforcement if an intrusion occurs.
4. Practice common sense: Avoid leaving valuables such as laptops or cell phones in your car, especially when parked in public places.
5. Trust your instincts: If you feel uneasy or sense danger, trust your instincts and leave the area immediately.
6. Report suspicious activity: If you see any suspicious activity, report it to the Mesa Police Department or call 911.
Conclusion
Crime is an issue that affects the safety and security of Mesa, AZ’s residents, businesses, visitors, and law enforcement agencies. However, recent reports indicate decreasing crime rates in the city. In 2019, burglaries, vehicle thefts, and thefts remained the most common types of property crimes in Mesa, AZ. At the same time, violent crimes, such as aggravated assaults and robberies, remained a concern.
Residents and visitors can keep themselves safe by being aware of their surroundings, locking doors and windows, installing security systems, using common sense, and reporting suspicious activity. Additionally, the Mesa Police Department is working tirelessly to reduce crime rates in high-crime areas through increased patrols, community policing, and partnerships with local businesses and residents.
————————————