Vegas Crime on the Rise in 2023, FBI Data Shows

According to the FBI’s newly released crime statistics for 2023, Las Vegas recorded a slight increase in overall offenses. The LVMPD reported a 1.4% increase in total offenses: 133,718 crimes last year against 131,884 in 2022. It is yet unknown whether this trend will extend into 2024, but September has seen several bizarre and unexpected criminal incidents.

Law Enforcement Is Focusing on Tourist Safety

The FBI data reveals that while some crime categories went down, others shot up, painting a mixed picture of the city’s public safety. Homicides notably decreased by about 12%, with 146 incidents this year, from 167 in 2022. Animal cruelty cases also dropped significantly by 20%, with 125 incidents this year, down from 156 in the year prior.

However, drug-related crimes spiked dramatically. Narcotics and drug offenses were up 10%, with 9,863 cases in 2023 from 8,935 in the previous year. Captain Steve Connell with the LVMPD commented on the matter for FOX5, detailing the department’s strategy to curb this spike in drug-related crimes. He added that keeping the tourist corridor safe remains a priority for law enforcement.

We are making arrests for drugs to prevent drug-related violence. We are taking the weapons out of the hands of potential offenders before they use them.

Captain Steve Connell, LVMPD 

The proliferation of drugs reflects ongoing concerns about drug-related violence and trafficking in the city. Authorities have recorded substantial success with their  “Edged Weapon Initiative,” which has resulted in 300 arrests this year, further strengthening the city’s stance against potential violence. Its overall success will become clear in the FBI’s 2024 report.

Bizarre Crimes Continue to Surprise Authorities

Vegas has a reputation as an epicenter for some strange and unexpected crimes. September had several notable cases, like a North Carolina pastor who got arrested after he called the police for stolen property from his hotel room. When the police questioned him, the 61-year-old confessed to having a weapon in his hotel room. Officers found an AR-15 rifle with a scope and a large amount of fentanyl.

Another bizarre incident happened at Affordable Cremation & Burial, a funeral home. A woman broke into the premises and stole a coffin containing a human body, only to later dump both outside the facility. When apprehended, the suspect told the police that she had drank six beers before the accident and added that alcohol often makes her black out.

Based on the crime data, local law enforcement is working to revise its strategies regarding rising offenses. LVMPD tracks trends weekly to identify areas needing more patrols and crime prevention efforts. Law enforcement officials remain vigilant in curbing drug-related offenses and preventing further violence while also handling the bizarre and sometimes shocking incidents that capture public attention.