crime rates

Crime rates measure the frequency of crimes within a specific population over a given time, usually expressed per 1,000 or 100,000 people. These rates help assess public safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement. They can vary by location, type of crime (such as violent or property crimes), and over time due to factors like economic conditions or social changes. Understanding crime rates can help identify trends, allocate resources, and inform policy decisions to improve community safety. However, they should be interpreted carefully, considering context and local factors.