South Carolina has seen a rise in violent crimes since 2020, including a spike in murders and assaults. This follows a trend occurring across the United States.
The rise of violent crimes
In South Carolina, violent crimes have increased by 6% in 2020 compared to 2019, according to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. This rate includes a 22% increase in murders and a 10% increase in aggravated assaults. Overall, the past five years have seen a 53% increase in murders in the entire state. On the other hand, the number of property crimes, such as burglary and theft, has decreased.
The dilemma in South Carolina coincides with the nationwide increased rates of murder in major cities across the U.S. The overall murder rate increased by 30% from 2019 to 2020. These statistics mean that 2020 has seen the highest rates of murder in over a century. Professionals who study matters related to violent offenses claim that the main reasons for rising crime are increased rates of unemployment and stress for people who are uncertain about their economic and financial future.
Uncertain trends in crime beyond 2020
In highly populated countries, there are typically increased rates of violent crime. When unemployment rates are high and stress levels are higher, murders and aggravated assaults may be more likely to occur. However, even during hard economic times, criminologists have reported that the rates of theft and burglary have decreased.
Individuals who have been accused of committing violent offenses have certain rights under the law meant to protect them as they proceed through the criminal justice system. It’s important for defendants to understand these rights.