The Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program

The Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program is a nationwide system that collects and shares data on crime incidents reported by law enforcement agencies across the United States. It aims to provide a consistent way to track crime trends, compare crime rates between different areas, and help policymakers, researchers, and the public understand crime patterns. Agencies voluntarily submit data on crimes such as theft, assault, and murder, which is compiled into reports. The UCR helps create a clearer, standardized picture of crime in America to inform crime prevention efforts and policy decisions.