Federal survey estimates 25% drop in violent victimization

A preliminary federal survey found that nonfatal violent victimization excluding simple assault fell 25% in 2025, from 9.9 to 7.4 incidents per 1,000 people aged 12 and older, the Justice Department said Monday. The Bureau of Justice Statistics’ National Crime Victimization Survey also estimated declines in property crime and several other categories. The survey measures crimes experienced by people and households, including incidents never reported to police. Its estimates showed property victimization falling 19%, from 138.0 to 111.2 incidents per 1,000 households. Aggravated assault victimization declined 31%, while robbery fell 27%, according to the reported figures. The results are preliminary, and the Bureau of Justice Statistics cautioned that the 2025 survey used a redesigned instrument introduced in January of that year. The change affects comparisons with earlier results. The agency plans to publish final 2025 victimization estimates in 2027. The survey is conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau and covers people aged 12 and older. Unlike crime statistics based on reports to law enforcement, it asks people about their experiences whether or not they contacted police. The...